Aston Villa confirm departure of Moussa Diaby to Al Ittihad

Aston Villa have confirmed the departure of winger Moussa Diaby, who has completed a permanent transfer to Al Ittihad.

The French forward became Villa's record signing last summer when they fought off competition from Saudi Arabian side Al Nassr to strike a deal worth over £50m. He bagged six goals and eight assists across 38 Premier League games in a solid debut season.

However, after snubbing a move to the Middle East last summer, Diaby's head was once again turned following a renewed approach from Al Ittihad, who have paid close to £50m to lure the 25-year-old away from Villa Park.

"Villans, thank you for everything. It's time to say goodbye," Diaby wrote on social media. "I'd like to thank the club, the team members, the staff and everyone working at Aston Villa.

"I've always given my best to help the club and the team, we've had some great moments that will stay in my memory. We've had a fantastic season, with moments of joy and happiness.

"Together, we've achieved our objectives. The club will be playing in the Champions League next year and I wish them success. It's a season I will remember forever. Villans, I won't forget you."

Villa may have already found their replacement for Diaby, having struck a deal to re-sign former academy star Jaden Philogene from Hull City earlier this month. Samuel Iling Junior also joined in the deal which took Douglas Luiz to Juventus.

Cameron Archer has rejoined the club following Sheffield United's relegation to the Championship, but the young striker is expected to head back out either on loan or on a permanent deal.

Diaby's sale brings some much-needed funds back to Villa in a summer which has seen them spend close to £150m on new signings.

Alongside Philogene, Iling Junior and Archer, Villa have brought in Amadou Onana, Ian Maatsen, Ross Barkley, Enzo Barrenechea and Lewis Dobbin.

READ THE LATEST TRANSFER NEWS & GOSSIP FROM AROUND THE WORLD