English Premier League
Moussa Diaby’s move from Al-Ittihad to Bayer Leverkusen delayed by financial dispute
Moussa Diaby’s proposed transfer from Al-Ittihad to Bayer Leverkusen has been delayed after a late disagreement over the French winger’s outstanding financial dues.
Diaby had already begun preparing for a return to the German league, with negotiations between Al-Ittihad and Bayer Leverkusen understood to have progressed. However, the player has yet to reach a final agreement with his current club over the money he is owed, preventing the transfer from being completed.
The unresolved issue has left Diaby’s move to Bayer Leverkusen on hold, with the deal now dependent on a settlement between the player and Al-Ittihad.
According to Saudi newspaper Al-Riyadiyah, the financial dispute has disrupted the final administrative steps required to conclude the transfer. Although Diaby had moved into the process of returning to Germany, the lack of agreement over the outstanding details has forced the parties back into negotiations.
The next few hours are expected to be important for the future of the deal. Al-Ittihad and Diaby are seeking a final arrangement over his financial entitlements, which would allow the France international to complete his move to Bayer Leverkusen.
The situation has wider implications for Al-Ittihad’s transfer plans. The Saudi club is waiting for Diaby’s departure to be finalised before completing its pursuit of Japan international Ritsu Doan, who is also close to joining the Jeddah-based side.
Diaby’s transfer has therefore become the final step in Al-Ittihad’s planned move for Doan. The club must first settle the remaining details with Diaby before it can complete the procedures for the Japanese player.
Al-Ittihad are keen to resolve the matter quickly so the dispute does not disrupt their plans to strengthen the squad. Bayer Leverkusen, meanwhile, are waiting for formal approval to bring back their former player.
Diaby’s position remains unresolved until the financial disagreement is settled, despite the progress previously made in talks and the player’s preparations for the move.
The delay comes as Al-Ittihad continue to manage several major developments in the transfer market. The club’s next move will depend on whether it can reach an agreement with Diaby and clear the way for Doan’s arrival.
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