Real Madrid set to rival PSG in race for Moussa Diaby

Real Madrid are set to go head-to-head with Paris Saint Germain in the race to sign Bayer Leverkusen star Moussa Diaby, according to SPORT.

Los Blancos are looking to reinforce their forward line this summer especially in the right-wing department, with uncertainty surrounding Marco Asensio’s long-term future.

Asensio’s contract with the European champions runs out this summer, and the Spanish forward is yet to sign an extension despite reports suggesting otherwise.

The 27-year-old is in talks with the club, but both parties are yet to agree on a new deal, and he could leave as a free agent this summer with clubs abroad monitoring his situation.

However, Madrid are preparing for the possibility of Asensio’s departure and have pinpointed Diaby as a potential replacement for the former Espanyol man.

The 23-year-old has been in phenomenal form for Xabi Alonso’s side this season, notching 14 goals and 11 assists in 44 appearances across all competitions.

He also has four goal contributions in seven Europa League games, furthering his reputation as an exciting young prospect, with the European heavy-spenders already lining up a summer move. 

Madrid are poised for a record spending spree this summer with Borussia Dortmund’s Jude Bellingham and a blockbuster move for PSG’s Kylian Mbappe on their to-do list.

Diaby has been added to their star-studded shortlist, but Los Blancos will face competition from PSG for the France international forward.

The Ligue 1 giants are also planning a summer overhaul, especially in the attacking areas, with Lionel Messi and Neymar set to leave Parc des Princes this summer.

Messi has been linked with a return to Barcelona, who are reportedly pulling out all the stops to ensure the deal goes through, but the World Cup winner also has an offer from Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia.

Neymar has also been linked with a move to the Premier League, and PSG are looking to recruit Diaby, who could form a part of their new-look attacking line-up for next season.

Leverkusen have slapped a huge €75 million asking fee on their prized asset, but that is unlikely to deter Madrid and PSG, who are reportedly keen on securing the player’s signature.