Newcastle United might have a chance to sign Moussa Diaby this summer based on Simon Rolfes’ latest comments.
The Bayer Leverkusen sporting director has spoke abut the 22-year-old’s future, and admitted the club might have to sell him.
Eddie Howe is keen to sign a right winger before the transfer window closes, and Diaby appears to be the Magpies’ top target.
It was previously claimed that Newcastle were confident of a deal for the Frenchman, but a move is yet to materialise. That was according to the Northern Echo, who said the same thing about Sven Botman – and look what’s happened.
But while history may not repeat itself, Leverkusen appear to be braced for Diaby to leave.
What Simon Rolfes has said about Moussa Diaby
The former Germany midfielder has spoke to Sky Germany about Diaby, and hopes he stays with the Bundesliga side.
“I’m optimistic about Moussa that he will play here again next season,” he said.
“But when clubs with incredibly large financial opportunities bid for such a player, we have to sell a top player at some point.”
Rolfes doesn’t name Newcastle outright, but a club with ‘incredibly large financial opportunities’ sounds a lot like the Magpies nowadays…
Newcastle will need to break the bank for Diaby
Diaby would be a dream signing for Newcastle. A deal would be just as exciting as the arrival of Bruno Guimaraes in Janaury.
He is the kind of player who could take us to the next level in attack following a scintillating season in Germany. The France international scored 13 goals and provided 12 assists on route to finishing third in the Bundesliga.
Diaby’s killer instinct would be very welcome at St James’ Park, with our current wingers sometimes struggling in the final third.
However, it will cost Newcastle a lot of money to prise him away from Leverkusen.
It was recently reported in Germany that they want £51million. However, Dan Ashworth and co are only willing to pay £34million.
Leverkusen’s desire to sell will dictate whether a compromise can be reached or if Newcastle simply have to bow down to their demands.
If Newcastle are to sign Diaby, he will likely become one of the club’s most expensive signings ever. Unless a huge bid comes in, it doesn’t sound like Leverkusen will be selling.
Rolfes is ‘optimistic’ he will stay, while Toon fans dream of seeing Diaby in black and white.
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