Habib Diarra’s proposed transfer from Strasbourg to Leeds United has hit a standstill, with negotiations reportedly bogged down due to disagreements between the English club and the player’s representatives.
Leeds have tabled an £18 million bid for the dynamic midfielder, but despite Strasbourg’s openness to a sale, the deal remains incomplete.
British journalist Ben Jacobs has reported that the primary obstacle lies not with the French club, but within Diarra’s own camp.
Talks between the Championship side and the player’s entourage have proven to be complex, with both parties struggling to reach a consensus on key terms.
The impasse has delayed what many expected to be a straightforward move for one of Ligue 1’s most promising talents.
Adding to the intrigue, Strasbourg president Marc Keller confirmed on RMC’s “After Foot” programme that Diarra is indeed expected to leave this summer, as per a commitment made when the player extended his contract two years ago.
“There is one player who is expected to leave based on a promise I made to him two years ago, and that’s our captain Habib Diarra,” Keller stated. “When he extended his contract, we told him he was extending, but that he wouldn’t leave until June 2025. So if we have an attractive offer for him and for us, he could leave.”
Despite Leeds’ bid matching expectations on the financial front, the negotiations on the player’s side remain a sticking point.
Issues reportedly involve salary structure, bonus clauses, and long-term career planning, which Diarra’s representatives are keen to secure in his favour before greenlighting the move.
The Senegalese international, who has impressed with his leadership and performances at Strasbourg, is not short of admirers.
While Leeds remain frontrunners, several other European clubs are believed to be closely monitoring the situation and could swoop in if talks continue to falter.
At just 20 years old, Diarra has shown maturity beyond his years, captaining his club and earning praise for his versatility in midfield.
His potential departure has been anticipated, and while Leeds appear eager to finalise the transfer, they must now navigate the complex dynamics of agent negotiations to seal the deal.
For now, the future of Habib Diarra remains uncertain, with both Leeds United and Strasbourg waiting on a resolution that depends largely on his inner circle.
