(Credit: Imago)

Rangers in advanced talks for new transfer as Oumar Diakite deal on the cards

Pranav is a sports journalist who graduated from St. Mary’s University, London, in Sports Journalism (MA). He has over nine years of experience working inside newsrooms, including but not limited to News Associates, The Non League Paper, HT Media Group, VAVEL, Sportskeeda, Chichester Observer and Eastbourne Herald. He specialises in news related to takeovers, club finances and injuries.

Published on:

31 Aug 2025, 5:57 am

Rangers are reportedly eyeing a deadline-busting move for Reims attacker Oumar Diakite.

Despite Bojan Miovski joining Rangers from Girona and being in the starting eleven against Celtic, they are keen on signing yet another attacker in the next 48 hours.

Everton striker Youssef Chermiti also appears to be on his way to Ibrox, but there could be yet another offensive acquisition.

Everton striker and Rangers target Youssef Chermiti

Chermiti appears on the verge of joining Rangers. (Credit: Imago)

Oumar Diakite could join forces with Russell Martin

Russell Martin wants more new players at Rangers after his disastrous start to life in Glasgow.

There have been glaring issues all over the pitch and fans have already turned on the former Southampton manager.

Failure to qualify for the Champions League and win any of the opening three league games have only made things more complicated for the 39-year-old.

With just two days left for him to add to his ranks, Gers now appear to have turned their attention to Diakite.

According to Afrik Foot on 31 August, the Ibrox outfit are in advanced talks with Reims to sign the 21-year-old Ivory Coast international.

Read more: Rangers reach agreement to finalise Oscar Cortes exit

Rangers manager Russell Martin scratches his head with a concerned expression.

Martin is under pressure at Ibrox. (Credit: Imago)

What Oumar Diakite can bring to Rangers

Diakite can bring a potent mix of physicality, pace and clinical finishing, addressing Rangers' need for a reliable goal threat.

Standing at 1.85m with a strong right foot, he excels in hold-up play, aerial duels and linking with wingers.

Diakite has 15 caps for the Ivory Coast
His contract at Reims runs until 2028
He has 23 senior goals to his name

His versatility allows deployment as a lone striker or in support, adding dynamism to Martin's high-pressing system.

However, with Miovski already at the club and Chermiti close to joining, Gers may have one too many options to lead the line.

It remains to be seen if, despite this, Diakite is signed or if they're only in talks with him in case the Chermiti deal falls through.

Gers undoubtedly need to strengthen their playing eleven, but if he cannot start ahead of Miovski, it makes sense to spend that money elsewhere.

Another centre-back should be higher up on the priority list than a number nine, as things stand.

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Oumar Diakite