West Brom sign Ousmane Diakité on two-year deal

West Bromwich Albion have confirmed the permanent signing of midfielder Ousmane Diakité. The 23-year-old Malian has signed a two-year contract with an option for a further year at The Hawthorns.

Diakité, who made 34 appearances and scored two goals for Austrian Bundesliga side TSV Hartberg last season, is eager to begin his first season in English football.

"I am delighted to be joining such a massive club," he said. "It's always been an ambition of mine to play in England and I just can't wait to get started. I'm determined to succeed here and I will do everything I can to improve every single day."

Head Coach Carlos Corberán praised Diakité's potential and versatility.

"Ousmane is a young, talented midfielder with the potential to continue his growth as a player in England. His personality on the ball will help us transition from defence to attack. He has experience abroad in Austria’s top league and has good physical attributes which will help him to adapt to the high demands of the Championship."

Diakité is a defensive midfielder and an Africa Cup of Nations U20 winner with Mali.

He started his career at Yeelen Olympique in Mali before moving to Austrian giants RB Salzburg in 2018.

His professional debut came during a loan spell at FC Liefering, where he made 19 appearances and scored his first senior goal.

Diakité's international success continued with Mali’s U20 team, contributing to their historic Africa Cup of Nations triumph in February 2019.

His club career included stints with SCR Altach in Austria and St. Gallen in Switzerland.