Newcastle United want Bayer Leverkusen to sell Moussa Diaby to them in January, but that might not be possible after Simon Rolfes’ comments.
The Magpies were heavily linked with the Frenchman during the summer. It was even claimed that there was confidence he would move to St James’ Park.
However, that did not happen. Leverkusen’s asking price was too high for Newcastle, who decided against a move for the 23-year-old.
But that doesn’t mean Eddie Howe’s interest in the winger is over.
It has recently been claimed by i News that Diaby is still on Newcastle’s radar going into January. it is reportedly hoped that chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan will be inspired to sanction a big money move for someone like the Leverkusen star.
But while the funds might be available, it appears that Leverkusen may be against losing one of their top players during the winter window.
Simon Rolfes on Leverkusen possibly selling Moussa Diaby
Bayer Leverkusen’s Sporting Director Simon Rolfes has conducted an interview with the Express. The former midfielder was asked about Diaby’s future.
“For sure, we want to keep Moussa for as long as possible,” he said.
“I know a lot of scouts have been sitting on our tribune during our matches because we have a lot of interesting, exciting young players with high potential.
“So, it’s the same as [Patrik] Schick. We did not receive any offers for him but we are not even looking for that at the moment. We wanted to keep him and play Champions League football with him this season.”
Diaby deal could be difficult for Newcastle
Rolfes’ comments do not suggest that Diaby will be sold in January. That may be a blow to the Magpies’ plans.
Two marquee names are being linked – Diaby and James Maddison. But it sounds like the former might not be available.
It may all depend on how Leverkusen do in Europe. Diaby wanted to play in the Champions League, and Leverkusen are currently third in their group after three games. If they do make it through to the next round, there is surely no chance of Diaby leaving them in January.
It is a similar situation to the one Newcastle encountered with Sven Botman at the start of the year. Lille did not want to sell the defender ahead of appearing in the Champions League knockout stages. That forced Howe to wait until the summer to sign the 22-year-old.
Newcastle might have to do the same with Diaby if Leverkusen qualify from their group.
But if they are knocked out, Dan Ashworth may just test Rolfes’ desire to keep the forward for as long as possible.
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