Aston Villa have announced the signing of Bayer Leverkusen forward Moussa Diaby, subject to international clearance and a work visa.
The Villans have beaten Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr in the race for the highly sought-after France international winger.
Although the official statement did not reveal the finances involved in Diaby’s signing, it is believed Villa shelled out €50 million plus €10m in add-ons to wrap up the deal.
Diaby becomes Villa’s club record signing, eclipsing the €38m they paid to sign Emiliano Buendia from Norwich City two years ago.
The 24-year-old has signed a long-term contract with Unai Emery’s side and has already linked up with his new teammates on their pre-season tour of the United States.
Diaby becomes Villa’s third eye-catching signing of the Premier League transfer window, after the arrivals of Spanish centre-back Pau Torres for £35m and Belgium midfielder Youri Tielemans on a free transfer.
The former Paris Saint-Germain academy player could make his debut for Villa in the pre-season friendly against Newcastle United, who were one of several clubs interested in capturing his signature.
Diaby leaves Leverkusen with a record of 49 goals and 48 assists in 172 appearances across all competitions, including 31 goals and 38 assists in 125 Bundesliga games.
The exciting winger was in terrific form for Die Werkself last season, helping them to a top-six finish with 14 goals and 11 assists in 48 appearances across all competitions.
Diaby, who has won nine international appearances for the French national team, will add dynamism and goal threat to Villa’s front line.
With Emery’s side competing in the Europa Conference League next season, Diaby could prove a standout acquisition for the Villans, who have become an exciting prospect under the Spanish tactician’s leadership.
After finishing in the top seven last season, Villa’s summer business shows the club are determined to cement their position in the upper echelons of the Premier League table.
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