Arsenal could delve into the transfer market one more time this summer, with Mikel Arteta reportedly 'interested' in signing Bayer Leverkusen's Moussa Diaby. Arteta's squad is looking strong, but the Spaniard could potentially make another signing before the end of the transfer window, with the Gunners 'interested' in French winger, Diaby.
That's according to Fabrizio Romano, via Caught Offside, with the reliable journalist claiming Diaby has been on Edu and Arteta's list since missing out on Raphinha. Diaby had his best campaign to date last season, grabbing 13 goals and 12 assists for Leverkusen in 32 Bundesliga games.
However, further reports have gone on to claim that a deal would be difficult to complete. It seems that Edu will likely need to search for alternatives if he is not willing to break the bank to sign the Frenchman.
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Writing in his column for CaughtOffside, Romano says Arsenal manager Arteta is a big fan of Pedro Neto as an alternative, though a deal won’t be easy as Wolves hold 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.
He added: “Another appreciated player was Moussa Diaby but Bayer Leverkusen consider him untouchable as of now. They are also offering him a new deal.”
Earlier in the season, SportBILD reported that Arsenal identified Diaby as the player who could be the ideal Pepe replacement. Bayer Leverkusen reportedly asking for €100million (£84million) for the French International. BILD added that should Diaby force a move elsewhere, and the figure could drop to €75million (£63million) instead
However, Arsenal are not the only interested Premier League club, as According to French news outlet L'Equipe, the Magpies were interested in Moussa Diaby and considered him their priority target earlier in the summer window. The report went on to claim that an offer was considered for the French winger.
The 22-year-old enjoyed a strong season last campaign, having scored 17 goals and providing 14 assists in all competitions. He would certainly be a quality signing for Arsenal, but the complications of the deal explain why Arsenal are exploring alternatives.
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