Oumar Diakite begins Austrian top-flight spell with SK Sturm Graz

Stade de Reims have confirmed that Ivory Coast forward Oumar Diakite will spend the 2026-27 season with SK Sturm Graz on loan, with the Austrian club holding an option to buy him permanently.

The move, first reported exclusively by Africafoot, was announced on Stade de Reims’ official website and gives the young international the opportunity to continue his development in Austria’s top division.

Diakite is returning to a country he already knows well. He made 35 appearances in Austria’s lower divisions before moving on, and spent last season with Cercle Bruges. His switch to SK Sturm Graz represents a step up in competition as he looks to establish greater consistency and demonstrate his potential at a higher level.

The 21-year-old could also make his first appearance in European competition during the loan. SK Sturm Graz are competing in the UEFA Europa League, meaning Diakite may have the chance to face experienced opponents from across the continent while gaining valuable exposure at club level.

His performances in Austria will be closely followed by Stade de Reims, who remain contractually tied to the forward until 2028. The loan agreement includes an option to buy, leaving open the possibility that Diakite’s temporary move could become permanent at the end of the season.

Bolton were also interested in signing the Ivory Coast forward, according to a report previously published exclusively by Africafoot, but SK Sturm Graz have secured his services for the forthcoming campaign.

Diakite continues to have a strong reputation in the transfer market. Transfermarkt currently values him at €5m, while his annual salary at Stade de Reims was reported to be €500,000, equivalent to 325,000,000 CFA francs.

The move comes as Stade de Reims prepare for their Ligue 2 match against EA Guingamp on matchday five. Betting company 1xbet lists Reims as favourites for the fixture, with odds of 1.80 for a home win. A draw is priced at 3.30, while an EA Guingamp victory is listed at 3.90.

For Diakite, the immediate priority will be adapting quickly to the demands of the Austrian Bundesliga and securing regular playing time. His previous experience in Austria should help him settle, but the move to SK Sturm Graz also presents a new test, with domestic competition and potential European football both offering opportunities to accelerate his progress.

The option-to-buy clause gives the season added significance for both player and clubs. A productive campaign could persuade SK Sturm Graz to retain Diakite beyond 2026-27, while strong performances would also strengthen his position when Stade de Reims assess his future.