Aston Villa set sights on ‘big-money signing’ – sources
Moussa Diaby’s imminent Aston Villa exit is unrelated to the club’s financial situation, sources have told Football Insider.
It is believed the Midlands giants are determined to replace the winger with another big-money signing despite already securing a deal for Jaden Philogene this summer.
Diaby, 25, had been a top target for clubs in the Middle East before electing to join Villa – but Al Ittihad have now returned with an offer which has proved too good to refuse.
Villa had been in danger of breaching the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) before the start of the summer but sold Douglas Luiz and Tim Iroegbunam to alleviate their concerns.
Clubs are only permitted to lose £105million over three years under PSR, a figure Villa had looked set to exceed after spending big on transfers in recent seasons.
Diaby became the club’s record signing just last year (2023).
However, sources say the Midlands club feel they are getting a good deal for Diaby – banking an instant profit on the winger following his arrival from Bayer Leverkusen 12 months ago.
Diaby exit not related to Aston Villa financial strife
It is believed Unai Emery is now determined to secure funds from the deal to replace the France international.
The winger was a virtual ever-present for Villa last season, notching 10 goals and nine assists in 54 appearances across all competitions.
Sources say Diaby’s imminent exit will leave a “big hole” at Villa Park and the club are now “desperate” to add a new wide forward in the remainder of the summer window.
Emery’s side will play Champions League football in the 2024-25 campaign after finishing fourth last term.
In other news, Liverpool and Villa race to sign defender sensation.
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