West Bromwich Albion have offered a contract to former Arsenal FC midfielder Abou Diaby, the club has confirmed, but they face competition from Marseille for his signature.
Abou Diabya s career has been a story of a what could have beena , so far. The supremely talented Frenchmana s career has been ravaged by injuries and is a tale of how cruel the sports can be at times.
Diaby, who was signed from Auxerre by Arsenal in 2006, was initially seen as the eventual replacement for Patrick Vieira. But the midfieldera s progress has been halted by nearly forty different injuries in his nine-year spell at the club. Diaby has made just 16 Premier League appearances for Arsene Wengera s side in the last four seasons; and only one in his last two. Despite maintaining faith in him for a long time, Arsenal eventually decided to release him this summer when his contract expired.
Since being released, Abou Diaby has been linked with a move for West Bromwich Albion. The Baggies are looking to add some flair in their midfielder and are confident that they can get the best out of Diaby. West Bromwich manager Tony Pulis has confirmed that the French international has undergone a medical at The Hawthorns and they have offered him a contract.
West Brom confirm their offer for Diaby
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“Diaby had a medical yesterday. We’ve made him an offer and we shall see. The big thing with Abou is getting him fit.
“We’ve had a look and we think there are things he can do to improve his chances of playing 30 Premier League games and we’re confident we can help him do that.
“Whether he accepts that and the ethos of the football club we’ll wait and see. He is a top, top player.” a Tony Pulis told the press.
Marseille in the mix
West Brom though faces competition from Marseille for his signature. The French club have also been in talks with Diaby, with the club doctor Christophe Baudot assuring him of best medical care to restart his career.
It seems both West Brom and Marseille have added bonuses in the contract, which will be paid based on the number of appearances Diaby makes in a season. While the lure of staying in the Premier League is strong, Marseille will be able to provide Diaby the chance to play in Europa League. The Frenchman has a big decision to make in the following few days.