Many West Brom fans rejoiced when it was reported earlier this week that the club had activated Ousmane Diakite’s 12-month contract extension.

The Mali midfielder, while not always the best on the ball, has been a fan favourite for his dedication and tenacity in the center of the midfield, and has lately secured a starting berth under interim manager James Morrison.

He was named Man of the Match against Southampton in their 1-1 draw at The Hawthorns, followed by an outstanding effort against Hull City, which helped his side win 3-0 and achieve their first league victory in three months.

When Diakite joined the Baggies from Austrian Bundesliga team TSV Hartberg in the summer of 2024, the club had the option of adding 12 months to his contract.

Albion have decided to keep him in the midfield despite the fact that his contract is set to expire.

Diakite told West Brom’s official website: “I’m delighted to be extending my stay here for another year. “I’m very proud.”I’m committed to keep going, growing, and making the fans happy. “I focus solely on impressing and improving every day.This place feels like home. “I love West Bromwich Albion, the fans, and the staff.”It is apparent what we need to do as a team in the final few games of the season. We are extremely focused, and we will keep pushing each other. We are ready for battle, and I am eager to continue fighting.”

However, a new and unexpected twist has surfaced.

Despite his pleasantries, Diakite has spoken to Africa Foot about his extended contract at The Hawthorns, revealing that the Black Country club has done this solely to avoid losing him on a free transfer, with the midfielder admitting he may still leave the club during the upcoming summer transfer window.

Ousmane Diakite discloses a new West Brom twist following contract extension

According to Africa Foot’s interview with Ousmane Diakite, the midfielder confessed that West Brom took the option to extend his contract for another year to prevent letting him depart on a free transfer, while also revealing that other teams are interested in signing him in the summer.

Diakite stated: “Even though other clubs are interested, the one-year option has been activated, and negotiations will continue with interested clubs during the next summer transfer window to ensure we do not miss out on this opportunity.”

“Of course, several Saudi clubs indicated interest before to the start of the season, with some even revising their offers. I also had offers from England and France.

“However, having achieved particular agreements before to extending my contract with West Bromwich Albion, it was critical to keep those promises. That is why this announcement was made: it is a step toward planning for the future.

“God willing, I hope the next transfer window proves beneficial. My club is actively negotiating with all interested clubs. My agency will take care of the rest. God willing, we will have excellent news this summer, as numerous clubs have showed interest in signing me.”

Ousmane Diakite, West Brom exit feels probable with latest development.

In a shocking change of events, Ousmane Diakite’s statements appear to hint that he plans to leave West Brom during the forthcoming summer transfer window.

The Baggies appear to have prioritised their financial interests by ensuring a profit from the sale of the Mali midfielder, allowing them more funds to work with when assembling a squad for either another season in the Championship or a drop down to League One.

It will undoubtedly be devastating news for all Albion supporters to hear, considering that Diakite is so well liked, not only by the fans but also by the playing squad, who all appear to be energized by his continual smile and optimistic attitude toward life.

But it appears that Diakite is ready for a new challenge. Of course, more twists and turns can happen as the transfer window draws closer, but it wouldn’t be a surprise to see the club sanction a sale and receive some much-needed funds.

We’ll see what the future holds in time, but right now, it seems Diakite is ready to move on from The Hawthorns after a two-year stay.