Leicester City are reportedly closing in on the signing of GAIS striker Ibrahim Diabate, although competition from Wrexham could yet complicate the move. Swedish publication Sportbladet claims the Foxes have reached an agreement in principle with the Allsvenskan side as they look to add firepower in January.
An improvement in form is badly needed as Leicester head into the early part of 2026. Marti Cifuentes’ team currently sit 13th in the table, a position that has increased the pressure on the head coach with every point dropped. Tight finances are also shaping the club’s transfer strategy this month, with any incoming business likely to depend on player sales and a reluctance to offload key squad members.
While Leicester can still bring players in, deals are expected to be structured as loans where possible. Sportbladet reports that Diabate fits that profile, with GAIS prepared to sell the forward during this window. Wrexham are also keeping a close eye on developments, which could force Leicester to act swiftly.
Diabate began his career in Ivory Coast with ASEC Mimosas before stepping into European football. After gaining experience in Spain with Mallorca’s reserve side, he enjoyed a productive spell that led to loans with Sevilla Atlético and later Atlético Madrid’s B team, alongside a senior appearance for Sevilla in the Copa del Rey in early 2021.
Limited opportunities in Spain eventually prompted a move to Sweden in 2023, when he joined Vasteras SK. He played a key role in their promotion to the Allsvenskan, although the club were unable to avoid relegation the following season. Diabate remained a regular presence despite their struggles.
A move to GAIS ahead of the 2025 campaign proved to be the turning point. Arriving on a free transfer, he enjoyed a standout season in Sweden’s top flight, finishing as joint top scorer and helping GAIS secure an impressive third-place finish.
For Leicester, adding a striker is a clear priority. With 19 games remaining, they remain just six points off the play off positions and possess enough quality to mount a push up the table. That ambition, however, hinges on finding a reliable source of goals. The failure to properly replace Jamie Vardy in the summer has been felt, both in terms of leadership and output.
Diabate appears to be the type of natural finisher who could make an immediate difference. With Wrexham also interested, Leicester may need to move quickly to ensure the deal is completed.