Dharmesh Sheth has claimed that there is a ‘gap’ in valuation between what Newcastle United are prepared to pay for Moussa Diaby compared to what Bayer Leverkusen want for their player.
The Sky reporter added that Newcastle ‘retain an interest’ in the 22-year-old versatile winger, who has three-years left on his contract.
Last season, only the dominant Bayern Munich and second-placed Borussia Dortmund faired better than Leverkusen, with Diaby playing a key role in the club’s success.
Freiburg coach Christian Streich and striker Nils Petersen once labelled the French winger as ‘incredibly dangerous’ and someone who was difficult to stop, as quoted by Bayer04.
The Toon Army faithful will be hoping to see some of his magic in their colours next season, as Sheth shared one problem with this possible deal, as he told Sky Sports.
“A line I have been given regarding Newcastle United,” said Sheth. “They retain an interest in the Bayer Leverkusen Moussa Diaby, it’s someone they have been looking at throughout the window.
“He is a number of attacking players the club are considering now. It’s thought that there maybe a gap in what Newcastle are prepared to pay compared to what Leverkusen what for the French international, Diaby.”
DIABY RIPPING UP GERMAN FOOTBALL
Over the course of last season, Diaby hit double figures in both goals and assists, as Leverkusen secured third spot in the Bundesliga.
From his 32 matches, the eight-cap France international scored 13 goals and supplied 12 assists for his team, including four goals and two assists in Europe.
Last summer, Leverkusen sold star man Leon Bailey to Aston Villa for £25 million (BBC Sport), so it proves that the club will sell if the offer is right.
But are the German club perhaps putting an extra few pounds on Diaby’s head because they know the money Newcastle have behind them?
Either way, the thought of one French winger in Diaby putting the opposition on their backside from one flank and Allan Saint-Maximin following suit from the other is something the Newcastle fans are probably looking forward to.
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