Arsenal could switch their attention toward Moussa Diaby as Mikel Arteta continues to search for a viable winger in this window.
According to Sky Sports Germany, Arsenal are plotting a move for Moussa Diaby as an alternative to Mykhaylo Mudryk. The 23-year-old French international has attracted the interest of a few Premier League clubs. The Gunners are the latest to think about signing the Bayer Leverkusen attacker.
There is plenty of work at Arsenal before the transfer window shuts in about two weeks. Having spent most of the current window chasing Mykhaylo Mudryk, the Gunners suffered a shock after the winger joined Chelsea in a matter of hours.
Arsenal were close to getting an agreement in place for Mudryk, only for Chelsea to swoop in late and get a deal done with Shakhtar Donetsk. Mikel Arteta wanted the 22-year-old on priority but now finds himself searching for another option in the market.
In the aftermath of the Mudryk saga, Arsenal explored the idea of rekindling their interest in Raphinha. Reports that Barcelona were open to offers for the Brazilian attacker may have alerted the Gunners. However, the player wants to stay in Catalonia.
The media has continued to link the Gunners with several other players. Some of those could only become available in the summer. One of those names is that of Moussa Diaby. The 23-year-old French international has consistently performed for Bayer Leverkusen. The Bundesliga outfit want to avoid parting ways mid-season.
Arsenal are reportedly considering approaching Bayer Leverkusen with an offer for the winger. Diaby has a contract until 2025, which makes him an expensive acquisition, especially in January. The Bundesliga outfit wanted a huge fee in the summer, which put off several clubs, including Newcastle United and Manchester United.
Yet, Newcastle United retain an interest in the 23-year-old French international, although they may not overpay for the signing. The Mudryk deal has had a ripple effect on other promising stars around Europe. In Diaby’s case, Bayer Leverkusen will likely point at the winger having much more experience and better numbers than the Ukrainian international.
Hence, they might consider demanding a fee similar to what Shakhtar extracted from Chelsea, which is around €100 million. Arsenal will show reluctance to pay that sort of fee, which may put any potential move in doubt.
Also Read: Three Potential Mykhaylo Mudryk alternatives for Arsenal
The summer transfer window may allow Arsenal to negotiate terms with Leverkusen. However, they might not return for the player after the season and may walk away this month if the price is high. The German outfit may only bother a little in this window, as they are keen to retain the winger and are uninterested in selling him.
