Premier League Giants Compete for Aston Villa's Former Record Signing Moussa Diaby
Liverpool are reportedly leading the charge among several Premier League clubs in active discussions with the representatives of former Aston Villa winger Moussa Diaby, aiming to secure his return to England this summer. According to sources, the Reds are closely monitoring the situation as they plan for a potential future without Mohamed Salah, who might depart for the Saudi Pro League.
Diaby's Journey and Current Transfer Situation
Moussa Diaby, now 26, left Aston Villa in 2024 to join Al Ittihad in a deal worth $67 million, which at the time set a record for Villa. After a season in Saudi Arabia, German publication Fussball Daten indicates that Diaby is eager to return to European football, with a Premier League comeback highly anticipated. During the January transfer window, he held talks with Inter Milan, but no agreement was reached, leaving the door open for summer moves.
Al Ittihad is reportedly willing to accept a reduced fee for Diaby, with estimates ranging between $41 million and $46 million, making him an attractive target for top English clubs. This potential discount reflects his desire to re-enter competitive European leagues and the club's readiness to facilitate a transfer.
Liverpool's Strategic Interest and Broader Club Competition
Liverpool's interest in Diaby is part of a broader strategy to bolster their squad, especially with uncertainties surrounding Mohamed Salah's future. Salah, who signed a two-year extension until 2027 last April, has seen a decline in form this season, scoring only five Premier League goals, and could be offloaded to manage the club's wage bill. As Liverpool's highest earner at over $500,000 weekly, his potential exit creates an opportunity for new signings like Diaby.
Beyond Liverpool, other Premier League sides are also keen on acquiring Diaby. Tottenham, Chelsea, and Newcastle have all been linked with the winger, showcasing the high demand for his talents. Additionally, European clubs such as Borussia Dortmund and Atletico Madrid are cited as possible alternatives, according to reports from Liverpool.com, highlighting Diaby's appeal across the continent.
Diaby's Impact at Aston Villa and Future Prospects
During his single season at Aston Villa, Diaby made a significant impact, playing 54 matches and scoring 10 goals after his £52 million move from Bayer Leverkusen. His departure was influenced by the club's Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) calculations, leading to his transfer to Al Ittihad. Now, with his prime years ahead, a return to the Premier League could reignite his career and offer clubs a proven talent at a bargain price.
The summer transfer window is set to be a pivotal period for Diaby, with multiple clubs vying for his signature. As discussions progress, fans and analysts alike are watching closely to see where this dynamic winger will land, potentially reshaping team rosters for the upcoming season.
