SK Sturm Graz are reportedly on the verge of signing Ivorian striker Oumar Diakite. The 22-year-old is already en route to a medical examination with the Austrian Bundesliga runners-up. The Austrian transfer window closes on Thursday at 5:00 PM, putting the deal in its final stages.
Diakite is currently owned by French Ligue 2 side Stade Reims and spent last season on loan at Belgian club Cercle Brugge. There, the forward scored seven goals. The player is no stranger to Austrian football, having previously gained experience at FC Liefering. During that time, he recorded 23 scorer points from goals and assists. His current market value is estimated at five million euros.
The Sturm Graz attack has scored six goals in five Bundesliga games so far this season. Coach Christian Ilzer's team sits in fourth place with eight points and has a goal difference of +1 (6 scored, 5 conceded). Their recent form of LDWWD has been mixed. A new striker could provide a fresh impetus, especially ahead of the key home match against league leaders Lask Linz on September 13, 2026. The current squad list at Sturm Graz could soon be expanded with another offensive player.
The signing would broaden the attacking options as the team trails Lask Linz by seven points in the title race. Every point is vital at this stage of the season to keep pace. The upcoming fixtures will show if the team can close the gap.
With Oumar Diakite, Sturm Graz would be acquiring a young, athletic striker who has already proven he can score goals in both Austria and Belgium. His profile as a powerful, goal-threatening forward could offer a different option through the middle. The Ivorian brings pace and physical presence. His arrival would increase competition for the striker position and give Coach Ilzer more tactical flexibility.
His market value of five million euros highlights the potential attributed to the player. A successful medical is the final hurdle before an official completion of the deal. The club's management is thus acting decisively just before the transfer deadline.
Sturm Graz has started the 2026/27 season with two wins, two draws, and one loss. The defense kept a clean sheet in three of the five matches, providing a solid foundation. The attack, however, is searching for more consistency. Integrating a new striker mid-season is always a challenge but also offers the chance for an immediate boost.
The team is currently preparing for the top-of-the-table clash against Lask Linz. A look at the current standings shows that a win in this direct duel would significantly reduce the deficit. Every point in the championship race counts double.
Should the medical be successful, the signing of Oumar Diakite could be officially confirmed before Thursday's deadline. Sturm Graz's next competitive match is the home game against Lask Linz on September 13.
