Moussa Diaby seals Bayer Leverkusen comeback after two years at Al-Ittihad

Moussa Diaby has left Al-Ittihad to rejoin Bayer Leverkusen during the current summer transfer window, with the Saudi Pro League club agreeing to sell the remaining period of his contract.

Al-Ittihad announced the French winger’s departure with a video posted on its official X account, featuring highlights from his time with the club under the caption: “He left a legacy and moved on.”

The Saudi club confirmed it had accepted Bayer Leverkusen’s offer for Diaby and thanked the 26-year-old for his contribution during his spell in Jeddah.

Bayer Leverkusen subsequently announced the signing, bringing Diaby back to the club three years after he left in 2023 to join Aston Villa. The German side said he will wear the number 19 shirt during the new season.

Diaby also addressed Leverkusen supporters after completing his return, saying: “I am home.”

Reports previously suggested that Bayer Leverkusen would pay no more than 30m euros for the winger. Diaby is also expected to earn an annual salary of 6m euros on a five-year contract.

His departure ends a two-year stay at Al-Ittihad, having joined the club from Aston Villa in the summer of 2024. During his time in Saudi Arabia, Diaby helped Al-Ittihad win the Roshn Saudi League and the King’s Cup in the season before last.

The winger’s performances, like those of many of his team-mates, declined during the previous campaign. However, he continued to attract interest from a number of European clubs, with Inter Milan among those linked with a move.

Bayer Leverkusen ultimately secured his signature and Diaby will now return to the club where he previously established himself before moving to the Premier League.

Al-Ittihad are already working to replace him and are pursuing Japan international Ritsu Doan, who currently plays for German club Eintracht Frankfurt. The winger is expected to join the Saudi side during the ongoing summer transfer window.

Diaby began his previous spell with Bayer Leverkusen before leaving in 2023 for Aston Villa. His second move away from Al-Ittihad means he will now resume his career in Germany, while the Saudi club prepares to reshape its attack following the Frenchman’s exit.