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According to Football Insider, Arsenal are ready to make a late move for Bayer Leverkusen winger Moussa Diaby.
The Gunners were interested in Raphinha at the start of the summer, but they dropped their pursuit after it was revealed that he wanted to join Barcelona.
The north London giants have not pursued another winger since, but Football Insider claims that they are planning a last-minute move to secure Diaby’s services.
Last season, the France international shone for Leverkusen, scoring 17 goals and providing 14 assists in 42 appearances across all competitions.
He is currently worth approximately £60 million. The Gunners are unwilling to pay that amount, but believe they can negotiate a lower figure in exchange for his signature.
Stan Kroenke ‘gives green light’ for Moussa Diaby to Arsenal transfer
The 23-year-old has piqued the interest of several Premier League clubs this summer, with Newcastle United among those keeping tabs on him.
However, the move has already been approved by Arsenal owner Stan Kroenke. According to reports, the decision was made prior to the opening day victory over Crystal Palace.
Diaby would create strong competition for position in the arsenal team.
Arsenal has maintained their strategy of pursuing both young and experienced players. Gabriel Jesus and Oleksandr Zinchenko will instill a winning mindset in the team.
Raphinha, with his Premier League experience, would have been a solid signing, but Diaby, after his tremendous progress at Leverkusen, would been an equally good signing.
During the previous season, the 23-year-old scored 31 goals. He can play on either flank and would provide strong competition that Nicolas Pepe lacks.
Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka are the undisputed starters for the time being, but with the World Cup looming, they are unlikely to play every game this season.
The Gunners could play up to ten games in October, and there will be another similar cycle in April. Arsenal requires squad depth. Diaby would be an excellent signing in that situation.
Fabio Vieira was signed by Mikel Arteta’s side earlier this summer, but he is more of a number 10. With Emile Smith Rowe regularly playing on the left wing, Diaby could be Saka’s rival.
The arrival of Diaby at Arsenal could pave the way for Pepe’s departure.
