Newcastle United dreamed of signing Moussa Diaby during the summer, and they may now have the perfect chance to make it a reality in January.
The Magpies are set to be in the market for a winger, with the likes of Leandro Trossard being linked with a move to St James’ Park. He would be an excellent addition, and is enjoying a great season in the Premier League so far.
But if the Toon owners decide to push the boat out in January and splash out on a big name, they might just have a chance to sign the player they desperately wanted before the season kicked off.
Newcastle were majorly linked with Diaby during the summer. It was even claimed that they were confident of agreeing a deal with Bayer Leverkusen.
However, that did not happen. Instead, Diaby remained in Germany and played in the Champions League. But his days in Europe’s elite competition are now over.
And that could be good news for Newcastle.
Champions League exit could help bring Diaby to Newcastle
Leverkusen finished third in Group B, meaning they will now drop into the Europa League. And with Xabi Alonso’s side currently 16th in the Bundesliga, it doesn’t look like they will be returning to the Champions League next season.
It means Diaby might have to go elsewhere to get European football. So what about Newcastle?
The Magpies are currently fourth in the Premier League, and look like serious contenders to qualify for one of Europe’s three competitions. At the moment, they’re in contention for the big one – the Champions League.
That could convince Diaby to make the move to Newcastle. And it could also convince Newcastle to take the plunge.
It was recently reported that there is hope that our good form will convince chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan to go big in January and make a signing or two to seriously boost our European aspirations.
Getting the 23-year-old would do exactly that. It has been claimed that Newcastle are still interested in the France international, and Toon scouts have been to watch him this season.
With Eddie Howe wanting to add a winger to his squad, why not Diaby? The stars are aligning. He no longer has the lure of the Champions League to keep him at Leverkusen, while Newcastle is suddenly an even more appealing place to play football.
The Athletic stated that Diaby is Newcastle’s ‘dream’ signing, and hopefully PIF now make it a reality in January.