Moussa Diaby returns to Bayer Leverkusen

Bayer Leverkusen have completed the return of Moussa Diaby, bringing the French winger back from Al-Ittihad in a deal reported to be worth just under €30 million.

The 27-year-old has signed until 2031 and is expected to earn around €6 million per season, plus bonuses.

Diaby first left Leverkusen for Aston Villa in a €55 million transfer three years ago, before Al-Ittihad paid €60 million for him only a year later. His return follows difficult negotiations over a settlement with the Saudi club, where he had reportedly earned €10 million net annually.

Sporting managing director Simon Rolfes welcomed the signing, saying: “With Moussa Diaby, we have brought a great attacker back to the Bundesliga. With his exceptional pace and dribbling, he will add extra quality and even more options to our attacking game.”

Diaby is equally happy to return. “I came to Germany as a very young and inexperienced player. Bayer 04 Leverkusen placed a lot of trust in me and always supported me,” he said.