Lincoln City's Reported Target in Advanced Talks with Schalke 04
Lincoln City's reported target Oumar Diakité is in advanced talks with Schalke 04, with the Bundesliga side set to secure his signature. The Ivory Coast international was previously linked with a move to the Imps, but now it seems he may be heading to Germany instead.
What Happened?
Oumar Diakité, a 22-year-old Ivory Coast international, is reportedly in advanced talks with Schalke 04 over a permanent transfer. The player was previously linked with a move to Lincoln City, but it seems he may have changed his mind.
Why It Matters for Lincoln City
The news will be a blow to Lincoln City, who were reportedly interested in signing Diakité. The player's departure will leave a gap in the Imps' attacking options, and it remains to be seen who will replace him.
What Comes Next?
Several unnamed Championship clubs are reportedly monitoring developments and could enter negotiations should an opportunity arise. It remains to be seen whether Diakité will ultimately join Schalke 04 or remain in the Championship.
Diakité spent last season on loan at Cercle Brugge, scoring seven times in 25 league appearances. The 22-year-old remains contracted to Stade de Reims and has also scored six goals in 23 senior appearances for the Ivory Coast, having been part of their Africa Cup of Nations-winning squad in 2024.
Schalke 04 now appear to offer the sort of move Diakité was waiting for. They secured promotion back to Germany's top flight last season and can provide both Bundesliga football and the opportunity to represent one of the country's biggest clubs.
Unless one of the interested Championship sides can persuade him to reconsider England, Diakité's future increasingly looks likely to lie in Gelsenkirchen.
