In a major transfer buzz, Aston Villa’s standout winger Moussa Diaby is on the verge of sealing a $65.3 million move to Saudi Pro League club Al-Ittihad, owned by Egyptian billionaire Nassef Sawiris.
According to ‘The Athletic’, the 25-year-old French player has agreed to personal terms on a long-term contract with the Saudi club.
Diaby made a significant impact at Aston Villa following his $43.6 million transfer from Bayer Leverkusen last summer, scoring 10 goals and providing 9 assists across all competitions in the past season.
His performance was crucial in Villa’s Premier League journey, contributing to their first Champions League qualification in 41 years.
The Saudi Pro League has been a big spender in the football world, ranking eighth in the last decade with approximately $1.7 billion invested in player acquisitions.
Al-Ittihad is also reportedly in talks with Manchester City to finalize a deal for Brazilian goalkeeper Ederson in the coming weeks, according to ‘Daily Mail‘.
Spanish newspaper Marca reported that Kevin De Bruyne has made his final decision regarding his future during the current transfer window.
The newspaper stated that the Belgian national team player is on his way to leaving Manchester City after receiving a significant offer to play in the Saudi Pro League.
“Following Belgium’s loss to France in Euro 2024, talks suggest that the international player has already agreed to move to Saudi Arabia,” the report added.
The team rumored to be securing Kevin De Bruyne’s services is Al-Ittihad, where he will join French star Karim Benzema.
The report concluded: “De Bruyne’s contract with Manchester City ends in June 2025, which makes the English champions inclined to agree on selling the 33-year-old player’s contract rather than losing his services for free next season.”