Newcastle United are reportedly ready to reignite their interest in Bayer Leverkusen star Moussa Diaby when the transfer window reopens in January.
The Magpies have enjoyed a decent start to the 2022/23 Premier League campaign and lie sixth in the table, winning three and drawing five out of their nine games. Eddie Howe’s project at St. James’ Park is taking shape and the club’s Saudi owners intend to spend again in January to aid the rebuilding process.
According to a report from The I, Newcastle United could make a move for Bayer Leverkusen winger Moussa Diaby in the winter transfer window. The Toon Army were competing with Arsenal for his signature in the summer, however, Bayer Leverkusen made him untouchable as they were keen to keep the group together.
Diaby, 23, has been Leverkusen’s standout performer in an otherwise disappointing campaign so far that forced them to sack their manager Gerardo Seoane and bring in Xabi Alonso last week. The French international has registered two goals and four assists in 13 games across all competitions, and he will be hoping to go to the World Cup in Qatar next month.
Moussa Diaby to Newcastle United—Right option for Eddie Howe?
Moussa Diaby hasn’t quite lived up to the lofty expectations of the fans and pundits alike so far this season, yet, he has done really well to average 1.8 shots, 2.8 key passes, 1.7 dribbles, 0.8 crosses and 0.2 through balls with a pass success rate of 84.5% in the Bundesliga (stats courtesy: Whoscored). On top of that, he recorded a goal and two assists in Xabi Alonso’s first game in charge of the club last weekend.
A right-winger by trade, Moussa Diaby is more than capable of playing on the left and through the middle as a false 9. The 23-year-old is quick, aggressive, creative and unpredictable with the ability to create chances for his teammates out of nothing and score goals from long range. The Frenchman has a sweet left foot with which he has scored a variety of spectacular goals for Leverkusen.
Due to his diminutive frame, he can twist and turn without much fuss while gliding past players with the ball. One can expect Diaby to add more quality to Eddie Howe’s front line at Newcastle United and fight for a regular starting spot at St. James’ Park.
At 23, the ex-Paris Saint-Germain man’s best years are ahead of him which makes him an ideal choice for the Magpies’ long-term project under Howe. Diaby could even help Newcastle challenge for a top-six eight spot if a move materialises in January.
All in all, Howe and Newcastle must do everything possible to get a deal for the Leverkusen ace over the line in the next calendar year.