Arsenal were unable to sign a winger in the summer transfer window, despite the clear need to strengthen in the wide areas. Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli have a lot of pressure to perform until Edu can complete an attacking signing during the January transfer window
One player who the club were reportedly looking to sign in the summer transfer window was Moussa Diaby. But, due to how late in the window the Gunners seemed to register interest in him, a deal seemed too difficult to complete as Bayer Leverkusen were reluctant to sell
The French winger sent Edu a reminder of why Arsenal should once again look to pursue a deal this winter as he played a pivotal role for Bayer Leverkusen this season. The Gunners have also been given a price in order to secure his signature.
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According to German journalist Patrick Berger, Arsenal are again very interested in Diaby after the Mykhailo Mudryk deal collapsed. He understands there has been initial talks between the Gunners and Leverkusen, but the Bundesliga side don’t want to sell the French winger in January.
"Summer transfer more likely," Berger says. "Price tag €75million (£68million) + huge bonuses."
This follows on from Fabrizio Romano, via Caught Offside, with the reliable journalist claiming Diaby has been on Edu and Arteta's list since missing out on Raphinha in the summer transfer window. Diaby had his best campaign to date last season, grabbing 13 goals and 12 assists for Leverkusen in 32 Bundesliga games.
Writing in his column for CaughtOffside, Romano says Arsenal manager Arteta was a big fan of Pedro Neto as an alternative, though a deal was difficult in the summer as Wolves held out for £50million for the Portugal international.
"Arsenal have the name of Pedro Neto on the list, highly regarded in the club and endorsed by Mikel Arteta. There is no official bid yet and it is not an easy negotiation, as Wolves want more than £50m for the Portuguese talent," Romano said.
"Another appreciated player was Moussa Diaby but Bayer Leverkusen considers him untouchable as of now. They are also offering him a new deal."
Since the 2020/2021 season, Diaby has contributed to 48 goals, meaning he ranks third compared to any other under-23 player in Europe’s top five leagues. Only Erling Haaland and Dusan Vlahovic have achieved more.
With the Frenchman’s price tag now revealed, it could be a deal that Edu looks to explore. Arsenal are in desperate need of a winger, and Diaby is certainly a viable option.
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