Yahoo News Cristiano Ronaldo hope over Aston Villa transfer revealed as major Saudi bid planned
Aston Villa are reportedly preparing for renewed interest from a club that rivalled them for Moussa Diaby's signature one year ago.
That is the word of the Mail Online, who state that Saudi Pro League outfit Al Nassr are lining up a major swoop for the Villa star they missed out on in the hope of finally partnering him with Cristiano Ronaldo.
Diaby arrived at Villa Park last summer from Bayer Leverkusen and has since played an integral role in Unai Emery's plans. Causing danger alongside Ollie Watkins, he featured 54 times during his maiden campaign in England, scoring 11 goals and providing nine assists.
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The 24-year-old opted to stay in Europe, making the switch to Villa Park and in the process rejecting an advance from his Gulf state suitors. However, undeterred they have been tipped to return again in 2024 with their old blueprint restored.
Reasoning behind their renewed Diaby pursuit seems simple. Despite possessing world-renowned talent such as Ronaldo, as well as Aymeric Laporte, Alex Telles, Marcelo Brozovic and Anderson Talisca, they were only able to finish second to rivals Al Hilal in the 2023/24 season.
Last summer instead of Diaby they ultimately landed ex-Liverpool winger Sadio Mane from Bayern Munich, however the 32-year-old is thought to already be put up for sale to allow room for Diaby's arrival.
