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Aston Villa transfer news: 'Asking price set' for Diaby amid Saudi Arabia interest

Aston Villa 'set asking price' for Diaby amid Saudi Arabia interest
© Reuters
Aston Villa reportedly set a minimum asking price for Moussa Diaby amid interest from the Saudi Pro League.

Aston Villa have reportedly reached a decision over their stance on the future of Moussa Diaby.

Last summer, the West Midlands won the hotly-disputed race to secure a deal for the Bayer Leverkusen playmaker, who cost in the region of £52m.

From 54 appearances in all competitions, Diaby contributed 10 goals and nine assists, all but five of those coming in the Premier League.

Nevertheless, there was a perception that Unai Emery did not necessarily get the best out of an attacker who broke the club's transfer record.

With Villa having earned a place in the 2024-25 Champions League, the expectation has been that the 25-year-old will feature during that campaign, as well as work towards keeping the club in the top four of the Premier League.

Aston Villa winger Moussa Diaby celebrates scoring against Wolverhampton Wanderers on March 30, 2024.© Reuters

Diaby attracting Saudi Arabia interest

However, just a year on from rejecting interest from the Saudi Pro League, it again appears to be a possibility that Diaby could move to the Middle East.

Al-Ittihad, after a dismal title defence in 2023-24, are looking to rebuild to challenge the likes of Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr, and have seemingly identified Diaby as a preferred target.

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Villa will not entertain selling the France international unless they receive at least €55m (£46.2m).

That would see Villa balance the books with regards to the finances involving Diaby, yet club officials could insist on more for a player who is arguably at his peak.

Romano also adds that Villa are in no rush to cash in on Diaby, who remains a key part of Emery's squad going forward.

Diaby is said to be open to making the switch to Al-Ittihad, although it is suggested that further discussions are required between the relevant parties.

Aston Villa's Moussa Diaby celebrates scoring their third goal with teammate Boubacar Kamara on August 27, 2023© Reuters

Where do Villa stand financially?

Before the end of June, Villa had to make a mad dash in order to comply with the Premier League's Profit and Sustainability Rules.

Although a similar amount of money was spent as it was recouped, parting ways with academy graduate Omari Kellyman to Chelsea for £19m tipped matters in Villa's favour.

Jadon Philogene will be returning to the club from Hull City in a £13m deal, yet the England Under-21 international would not be viewed as a direct alternative to Diaby.

Despite Villa no longer being in a position where they have to raise funds, getting close to their money back for Diaby - and strengthening their position off the pitch in the process - may prove too tempting to turn down.

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Aston Villa's Moussa Diaby in action on August 3, 2023
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