Diaby’s Return: Bayer Leverkusen Confirms Deal for Al-Ittihad Winger

Bayer Leverkusen has reached an agreement to sign French winger Moussa Diaby from Al-Ittihad. The deal includes a five-year contract with a transfer fee of less than 30 million euros and an annual salary of 6 million euros for the player.

7 Aug 2026

Updated 17 Aug 2026 By Sophie Ziegler · senior correspondent

Diaby's Return to Bayer Leverkusen

French winger Moussa Diaby is set to return to his former club, Bayer Leverkusen. The deal has been confirmed after reports indicated that Diaby was close to leaving Al-Ittihad and joining the German side.

Diaby, 27 years old, will sign a five-year contract with Bayer Leverkusen, which runs until 2031. His annual salary is expected to be around 6 million euros plus bonuses. The transfer fee for Diaby's move from Al-Ittihad is reported to be less than 30 million euros.

Previous Tenure and Recent Performance

The player has a history with Bayer Leverkusen, having previously played there between 2019 and 2023 before moving to Aston Villa. He then joined Al-Ittihad in the summer of 2024. During his time at Al-Ittihad, Diaby made a significant impact, helping the team achieve two historic victories: winning the Roshn League and the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Cup for the first time in their history.

Diaby's return to Bayer Leverkusen is seen as a coup for the club. His experience and skill will be valuable assets as they look to strengthen their squad ahead of the upcoming season.