Winger Diaby joins Al-Ittihad from Aston Villa

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France winger Moussa Diaby has transferred to Saudi Arabian side Al-Ittihad from Aston Villa.

The 25-year-old departs Villa Park after just one season, having joined on a five-year deal for a club-record fee, reportedly £51.9m, from Bayer Leverkusen last July.

During his time with Villa, Diaby made 54 appearances, scored 10 goals, and played a key role in helping the team finish fourth in the Premier League, securing Champions League qualification.

“Villans, thank you for everything. It’s time to say goodbye,” Diaby said on X.

“I’ve always given my best to help the club and the team, and we’ve had some great moments that will stay in my memory. We’ve had a fantastic season, with moments of joy and happiness.”

Villa are reshaping their squad ahead of the new season and sold midfielder Douglas Luiz to Juventus for £42.4m last month.

They have signed Samuel Iling-Junior and Enzo Barrenechea from the Italian club, while left-back Ian Maatsen joined from Chelsea for £35m and winger Lewis Dobbin arrived from Everton for approximately £9m.

On Tuesday, Villa completed the £50m signing of Everton midfielder Amadou Onana.

The club has also re-signed Jaden Philogene from Hull, paying around £13.5m for the English winger less than 12 months after selling him to the Tigers.