Saudi Pro League side Al-Ittihad have ruled out the possibility of selling French-Malian forward Moussa Diaby during the ongoing January transfer window, despite interest from Italian giants Inter Milan.
The Jeddah-based club is expected to part ways with four players this winter after receiving several offers from both domestic and foreign clubs. However, Diaby is not among those considered for departure, as the club remains keen on retaining his services.
Saudi journalist Majed Al-Jamaan revealed on his official X account that Al-Ittihad’s management rejected a formal approach from Inter Milan for the French winger.
According to the report, the Serie A side proposed a loan deal until the end of the season while offering to cover only five per cent of the player’s salary.
Al-Ittihad were unimpressed by the terms and swiftly declined the offer, viewing Diaby as a crucial component of the squad. The club adopted a similar stance regarding fellow Frenchman N’Golo Kanté, rejecting Fenerbahçe’s attempt to secure his signature during the window.
Despite Kanté’s contract expiring at the end of the season and ongoing uncertainty surrounding his future, Al-Ittihad have opted to keep him until the campaign concludes in order to continue benefiting from his on-field contribution before making a final decision.
The Saudi champions have also shut the door on potential exits for local stars Saleh Al-Shehri and Abdulrahman Al-Aboud, stressing their intention to retain all international players for the second half of the season.
Earlier reports suggested that Al-Shehri was close to a move to Al-Shabab in search of regular playing time ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while rivals Al-Hilal were said to be interested in signing Al-Aboud.
However, Al-Ittihad appear determined to maintain squad stability as they push through the remainder of the campaign.
