BayArena, Leverkusen, Germany - September 13, 2022. Bayer Leverkusen's Moussa Diaby in action with Atletico Madrid's Reinildo Mandava.
iNews journalist Mark Douglas reports Newcastle United still ‘retain an interest’ in Bayer Leverkusen winger Moussa Diaby ahead of the January window.
The Lowdown: Summer interest
The St. James’ Park outfit reportedly held an interest in Diaby in the summer, but a move never materialised despite interest from multiple suitors, and he has stayed at Leverkusen.
In 13 appearances so far this season, the winger has managed two goals and four assists over all competitions (Transfermarkt).
The Latest: January move?
Writing in his latest piece for iNews, Douglas says that the North East club ‘intend to move again’ for new players in January, after spending over £120m in the summer.
Among the targets that they ‘retain an interest’ in is Diaby, although they are also still looking at Leicester City attacking midfielder James Maddison, with whom they were also linked with a move for in the summer.
The Verdict: Statement signing
Diaby would certainly be a statement signing if the Tynesiders can pull it off.
Hailed as a player with ‘electrifying pace, good with both feet + fearless on the ball’ by The Chronicle journalist Aaron Stokes, he claims that it would be a ‘remarkable deal‘ should Eddie Howe’s side be able to sign him.
Last season, the France international managed a very impressive 17 goals and 14 assists in total across all competitions, mainly playing out wide (Transfermarkt), and at 23 years of age, his ceiling is still so high.
Nonetheless, it would be a real coup if the Magpies were able to sign him and Maddison in 2023.
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