Aston Villa launch bid for long-term Newcastle United target - L'Equipe

According to L’Équipe, Aston Villa have submitted an opening bid for Bayer Leverkusen winger Moussa Diaby.

The Frenchman has been constantly linked with a move to Newcastle United over the past 12-18 months, although it seems our attention may have turned to Harvey Barnes in recent weeks.

FootballTransfers revealed last week that Diaby remained a 'priority target', but L'Equipe report that Villa have upped their interest and launched a bid.

They claim that the 24-year-old will be allowed to leave the Bundesliga side if an acceptable offer arrives, with the player out of contract in less than two years time.

Althought no deal has been agreed, Diaby is thought to be 'thinking about' a possible move to Villa Park. The project under Unai Emery has tempted the winger, but the lack of Champions League football on offer could see the attacker hold out for other offers, with Napoli thought to be keen.

L'Equipe add that we have been long-term admirers, but currently appear unlikely to reignite our interest in the £50m man. If Villa really have made their move, it'll be interesting to see if we return to the table in fear of missing out or continue to look elsewhere.