Bayer Leverkusen forward Moussa Diaby has hinted that he might leave the club in the summer amid interest from Newcastle United and Real Madrid.
Speaking to Le Parisien (h/t MaxiFoot), Bayer Leverkusen speedster Moussa Diaby has left the door open for an exit in the summer as Real Madrid and Newcastle United circle to sign him up.
A product of the Paris Saint-Germain youth academy, Diaby signed for Bayer Leverkusen in the summer of 2019 and has grown leaps and bounds since his switch. The 22-year-old has grown into a pivotal figure for the Bundesliga club while also breaking into the French national setup under Didier Deschamps.
Diaby has enjoyed an impressive 2021/22 campaign so far, scoring 16 goals and setting up nine more from 35 games in all competitions. His performances have caught the eye of a host of clubs across Europe, including Real Madrid and Newcastle United, among several others.
When quizzed if he was aware of the interest in him, Diaby answered in the affirmative while admitting that he thinks about leaving Bayer Leverkusen in the summer transfer window.
Moussa Diaby in the #UEL in 2020/21:.
◉ 8 games
◉ 4 goalsMoussa Diaby in the #UEL in 2021/22:
◉ 7 games
◉ 4 goals4+ goals in consecutive seasons for the youngster. ? pic.twitter.com/5deVpboWMF
— Squawka (@Squawka) March 10, 2022
“Obviously, I’m thinking about it, but not too much yet. I remain focused on the end of the season. For now, that’s my only concern. The objective is to qualify with Bayer for the Champions League. I love to participate in matches with pressure. It is in these moments that we see if a player is present physically and mentally,” he said.
Reports have indicated that Bayer Leverkusen will demand a massive sum of €100 million from interested parties for Diaby’s services in the summer. The 22-year-old was asked about the enormous price tag placed on him by the German said, and he replied, stating that it was a matter of pride and joy for him.
“It’s always nice to see such numbers. Afterwards, it’s not my job to fix the numbers, my objective is to give everything on the field, help the team and continue to play good games,” said Diaby.
Newcastle United are already believed to be preparing an offer Diaby, although that would fall well below Bayer Leverkusen’s price tag. Real Madrid also remain interested in signing the 22-year-old Frenchman, who could certainly depart from Germany before the next season kicks off.