Aston Villa have been told to smash their transfer record to sign Bayer Leverkusen winger Moussa Diaby, talkSPORT understands.
Unai Emery’s side are keen to utilise the summer transfer window to build upon their superb end to the Premier League season.
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Villa were on hand to finish 7th, which has secured them a play-off spot in Europa Conference League.
They were quick to strengthen ahead of the new campaign as they signed midfielder Youri Tielemans from Leicester.
Wednesday also saw them confirm the arrival of Villarreal centre-back Pau Torres in a deal rising to £35million.
Their attention now appears to be turning to their attack, with Leverkusen winger Diaby a target.
After an opening offer of £30million plus add-ons was rejected, the Bundesliga side told Villa they want in excess of £50million.
Talks between the two clubs are continuing and such a fee would see Diaby arrive as Villa’s most expensive signing.
Emi Buendia currently holds the title after he joined Villa Park from Norwich in 2021 for around £38million.
Diaby had been linked with a move to Paris Saint-Germain in May as they begin to prepare for life without Lionel Messi.
Arsenal also considered a move for the 24-year-old in January after failing to beat Chelsea to Mykhailo Mudryk.
Villa could be the player’s next destination though after an impressive season just gone with Leverkusen.
He scored 14 goals and provided 11 assists in all competitions for them, with 18 of his contributions coming in the Bundesliga.
Diaby also has nine appearances to his name with the French national team, providing more international experience for Emery’s side.
