CHEICK Diabate has sealed a deadline-day loan move to City from Exeter.

The 22-year-old centre half joins for the season and will provide further defensive cover for Graham Alexander’s squad.

Diabate, who made 18 appearances in the Grecians’ promotion season from League Two in 2022, will wear the number 39 shirt.

He becomes City’s ninth signing of the window – and another recruit who has tasted success in the fourth tier.

Diabate said: “It feels amazing to be here. I feel like I am signing for a good club, and I cannot wait to meet the lads and get started.

“I would describe myself as a no-nonsense defender. I take pride in defending my box, defending long balls, tackling, intercepting and clearances.

“I spoke to the gaffer last week and he told me about where the club is trying to go and where he sees it going. He has a clear path for the club and I want to come here and contribute.

“He wants to get promoted, and I want to be a part of it. I am here to work hard, give my all for this club and contribute positively.”

Alexander feels Diabate’s arrival will add competition at the back and follows Sam Stubbs’ departure to Cheltenham last week.

Alexander said: “We are very happy to bring Cheick in, to give us genuine strength and competition for our back three.

“Even though he’s still a young player, he has experience of playing League One football, and being a part of a successful League Two campaign at Exeter.

“He was really excited about joining us after I spoke to him earlier this week, and we look forward to working with him.”