Aston Villa winger Moussa Diaby is set to complete a transfer to Al-Ittihad for approximately €60 million (£50.4 million). The 25-year-old French international has traveled to Saudi Arabia for a medical examination and to finalize the deal, after spending just one season at Villa Park.
Diaby was acquired by Villa from Bayer Leverkusen last summer for a club record fee, reportedly £51.9 million. However, manager Unai Emery has opted to sell Diaby, who contributed significantly to Villa’s successful Premier League campaign, helping the team secure a fourth-place finish and a spot in the Champions League.
Following Diaby’s imminent departure, Villa have re-signed Jaden Philogene from Hull City for around £13.5 million. The club believes that Philogene, an academy graduate, will have a notable impact upon his return.
During his time at Villa, Diaby made 54 appearances, scored 10 goals, and played a key role in the team’s achievements. Villa have been active in reshaping their squad for the upcoming season, having previously sold midfielder Douglas Luiz to Juventus for £42.35 million.
In recent transfer activity, Villa signed Samuel Iling-Junior and Enzo Barrenechea from Juventus, acquired left-back Ian Maatsen from Chelsea for £35 million, and added winger Lewis Dobbin from Everton for approximately £9 million. Additionally, the club finalized the £50 million signing of Everton midfielder Amadou Onana on Tuesday.
