Edozie’s Leverkusen move boosts Newcastle’s hopes of signing Diaby

Eddie Howe wants to sign a wide man this summer and was linked with Moussa Diaby in the past without a deal materialising. But Newcastle United’s pursuit of the 22-year-old has been given a boost as Bayer Leverkusen are closing in on his potential replacement.

Die Werkself are closing in on a move for Manchester City youngster Sam Edozie who plays in the same position as Diaby, so the 20-year-old might be his replacement at the BayArena. That’s good news for Newcastle as Leverkusen may be receptive to a sale.

Diaby joined the Bundesliga outfit from Paris Saint-Germain in 2019 and has gone on to make 124 appearances in all competitions, scoring 35 goals with 37 assists. The French international is coming off the back of a prolific campaign, scoring 17 goals with 14 assists from 42 games, so it’s easy to see why Newcastle are keen.

Leverkusen paid £13.5m for Diaby, but his market value has risen to £54m, so Newcastle would have to break their transfer record to bring him to St James’ Park. Edozie is more a hot prospect than a tried and tested wide-man, however, so time will tell if Leverkusen willingly sell Diaby if he signs.

In other news, Newcastle should sign Raphinha