Transfer expert Graeme Bailey has shared an insight into Aston Villa’s thinking behind one imminent departure.
The summer transfer window has been full of surprises for Aston Villa, who got to work fast in order to relieve their PSR concerns.
Having made sufficient sales to avoid a financial breach, Monchi and Unai Emery have turned their focus towards possible incomings however, further exits are still expected.
Crucial first-team player Douglas Luiz departed to join Juventus earlier in the window, with another high-profile name now poised to bid a premature farewell.
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Moussa Diaby moves closer to Aston Villa exit as Al-Ittihad interest grows
Jhon Duran is one player whose Villa future is in doubt, with news this week now placing Moussa Diaby in the frame of a possible exit.
After joining Villa last summer for a record transfer fee, the Frenchman could now leave as Saudi Pro League side Al-Ittihad ramp up their interest.
Having only spent one season at the Midlands club, the prospect of his swift departure is confusing, with HITC journalist Graeme Bailey sharing some clarity on the situation when speaking to Aston Villa News.
“Diaby is keen to make the move, it is a very impressive package on offer.
“I’m told that ideally Villa would like to keep him, he has performed very well since arriving and he was a major outlay for them last summer.
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“But Villa, under Emery and Monchi, won’t keep a player that wants to leave.
“Monchi is holding talks as we speak with the Pro League, they will not allow him to leave – I am told – for less than £60m, which is a huge fee – only Jack Grealish has moved for more which tells us just how big a deal this is.”
Bailey went on to explain that while Villa fans may be disappointed by Diaby’s proposed transfer, it symbolises a far greater picture of the climate at the club since Emery and Monchi’s arrival.
“Letting Douglas Luiz and Diaby may disappoint some fans, but I think this just points to the power that Emery and Monchi have.
“This is their football club now and with their record, that should get Villa fans even more excited than they already are.”
Villa seem ready to part ways with Diaby
After contributing to 19 goals in his first season at Villa, fans were satisfied with the Frenchman’s impact, despite there being some reservations about his ability to remain consistent.
During the campaign, the 25-year-old was dropped out of Emery’s starting XI due to a dip in form and was unable to find a way back in prior to the summer.
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Now that the former Bayer Leverkusen’s role at the club can be considered as far from indispensable, it seems right that Villa should part ways with the forward if a significant offer is to come in from Saudi.
As per Bailey’s understanding, Emery and Monchi are aware of the financial gain Villa can generate from the transfer, as well as recognising that Diaby is not a crucial part of the manager’s plans and therefore, can be compromised.
