Record-Breaking Transfer Deal
HITC sources have confirmed that Aston Villa has agreed to a £50 million deal to sell Moussa Diaby to Al-Ittihad. This transfer will set a new record for Al-Ittihad, surpassing their previous highest transfer fee. The amount matches what Villa paid Bayer Leverkusen for the French winger in 2023.
Diaby’s Move to Saudi Arabia
Last week, HITC revealed that Al-Ittihad was in talks with Aston Villa regarding Diaby. Sources close to the deal indicated that Diaby expressed his desire to move to Saudi Arabia this summer. Initially reluctant, Aston Villa eventually sanctioned the transfer after manager Unai Emery gave the green light.
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Medical and Finalization
With the transfer fee agreed upon, Diaby is expected to undergo his medical in Saudi Arabia within the next 48 hours. The deal’s final steps are falling into place, making Diaby the fourth sale of the summer for Aston Villa following the departures of Douglas Luiz, Tim Iroegbunam, Morgan Sanson, and Viljami Sinisalo.
Impact on Aston Villa
Losing Diaby, who scored 10 goals and made nine assists last season, is a significant blow to Emery’s squad. However, Aston Villa is confident in their ability to cover his departure. They have already signed Samuel Illing-Junior and Jayden Philogene, along with other summer acquisitions such as Ian Maatsen, Cameron Archer, Lewis Dobbin, Enzo Barrenechea, and Ross Barkley.