Ben Jacobs has claimed that Newcastle United are seriously considering making a move for Bayer Leverkusen’s Moussa Diaby this summer.
The winger scored an impressive 13 goals and recorded a further 12 assists in the Bundesliga last season in what was an all round display throughout the campaign. And, now, Newcastle are interested, according to Jacobs, who told GiveMeSport:
“As I understand it, Leverkusen will only want a fee in the £40million or £45million region, not the £60million mark. But the add-ons are still going to take that deal to £60million and, as other suitors come in, Leverkusen may play hardball.
“Newcastle are seriously considering that move and the player has certainly intimated that he would be open to talking further to them.”
The price of £60 million with the add-ons included comes as little surprise. We recently saw Everton forward Richarlison make the move to Tottenham Hotspur this summer for the same price. It’s the market value these days for quality forwards. Diaby’s quality is undoubtedly that of a top talent; it’s just about if clubs want to pay the asking price now.
According to the Northern Echo, Newcastle have already made their move for the winger, too. As things stand, anything can happen, but the Magpies, as one of the richest clubs in world football, have certainly got the funds to match Leverkusen’s asking price.
TIF Thoughts on Jacobs’ Comments…
Newcastle haven’t had the busiest summer window on the attacking front so far, bringing in three players in the form of Matt Target, Nick Pope, and Sven Botman – with Botman the biggest deal of the three.
Eddie Howe will be keen to bolster his attacking options this summer, with Callum Wilson’s injury record leaving the Magpies without a consistent goalscorer. And, whilst Diaby is not necessarily a centre forward, his output certainly matches that of a player capable of taking the Magpies to the next level.
When compared to Allan Saint-Maximin last season, as per Squawka, Diaby had a far better conversion rate, scored more goals, and attempted more forward passes. Simply put, Diaby hit similar numbers to the Newcastle star, whilst also having that crucial end product.