Bayer Leverkusen have welcomed Moussa Diaby back from his summer break as speculation rumbles on regarding his future in Germany. The winger was in attendance as his side recorded a 6-1 win against MSV Duisburg on Saturday.
Diaby, who celebrated his 23rd birthday last week, remains a top Newcastle United target as Eddie Howe eyes attacking options in the summer market. The Magpies have held a long-term interest in the player and have been around the table seeking a deal.
Leverkusen are desperate to keep Diaby at the club and sporting director Simon Rolfes has already outlined their plan to keep him beyond the summer. Leverkusen boss Gerardo Seoane has echoed his colleague's thoughts by admitting the player has a huge role to play at the BayArena.
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"Moussa (Diaby) knows what we think of him. He knows what he has here," he told Leverkusen's official website last week. "As a club we always strive to give important players like him an important role.
"We all appreciate him. Of course, we also know things can happen in football that we can't influence. But Moussa is very happy here and I'm convinced he will carry on playing for Bayer 04."
Rolfes has been vocal with his feelings on Diaby in recent months, often playing down the prospect of an exit. However, that stance seemingly softened recently as the sporting director admitted a deal could be possible.
"I'm optimistic about Moussa that he’ll play here next season," he said. "But when clubs with incredibly large financial opportunities bid for such a player, we have to sell a top player at some point."
A deal of around £50m-£60m would be needed to persuade Leverkusen to part ways. As such, alternatives have already been identified in the form of Jack Harrison and Ismaila Sarr.
Reports last week suggested Marco Asensio had also been offered to the Magpies. The Spaniard has less than one year to run on his Real Madrid deal.
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