Newcastle United are confident of wrapping up a move for Moussa Diaby despite the large price tag hanging over his head…
What’s the word?
That’s according to The Northern Echo’s chief sports writer Scott Wilson, who claims that the Magpies hierarchy will make one final offer to Bayer Leverkusen for the 23-year-old.
The Bundesliga outfit want around £60m, which would eclipse Newcastle’s club-record (the £40m spent on Joelinton). However, their recruitment team are confident that there is scope for negotiation.
Should PIF break the bank for Moussa Diaby?
YES!
NO!
Big summer swoop
With the northeast giants targeting at least two more signings to bolster Eddie Howe’s playing squad for the new Premier League season, it would make sense for sporting director Dan Ashworth to try and sign Diaby one last time.
The France international is an exciting young talent that could add an abundance to the Englishman’s attack.
Diaby provided Leverkusen with a whopping 17 goals and 14 assists during the 2021/22 campaign and did so by playing on either flank, as well as upfront, as per Transfermarkt.
Such form has seen him compared to the likes of Mo Salah, Raheem Sterling and Phil Foden in terms of his statistical profile, via FBref’s metrics.
“When it comes to marquee signings, #NUFC would be hitting jackpot with Moussa Diaby,” claimed Chronicle editor Aaron Stokes earlier this month. “31 G/A in 42 games last season, electrifying pace, good with both feet + fearless on the ball. A remarkable deal if they persuade Bayer to sell + the player to join.”
Those ridiculous returns have also seen the tenacious wide man lauded by his national team boss, Didier Deschamps, who said (via Bundesliga.com):
“He is able to evolve in different positions. In his club, he plays a little more on the sides. This year, it’s a little more to the left than to the right, with freedom too.
“He has the option of using both feet. He’s versatile, in addition to his ability to accelerate, he’s rather skillful, he has a large volume of play. This desire that he has, the France team needs players of this type there too.”
Also lauded as an “absolute stud” by journalist Zach Lowry, it’s clear that Diaby would be something of a statement signing over at St James’ Park. So far, PIF appear to have been unwilling to fully open the chequebook, though the Leverkusen star is certainly one worth doing that for.
Ashworth must now break Newcastle’s club-record to land a remarkable signing in Diaby.
AND in other news, PIF could land their own Aguero as NUFC eye deal to sign “exceptional” £13m phenomenon…