Moussa Diaby confirms intent to stay at Bayer Leverkusen

Moussa Diaby has revealed he intends to stay with Bayer Leverkusen this season, despite interest from Newcastle United.

90min previously revealed that Diaby emerged as the Magpies’ top target this window but Leverkusen stood firm over their desire to keep him at the BayArena.

And now Diaby, whose ambition it is to start for France at the World Cup finals later this year, confirmed his intent to stay in Germany.

“I have taken my decision and I will play again for Bayer Leverkusen next season,” he told RP Online.

“It is up to me to keep performing well and to make it [to the World Cup]. I will do all that I can to be able to continue to be part of the squad.

“We have a really impressive team, uniquely with players at the highest level. I also need to be patient to find my place one day in the team.”

Leverkusen are being tipped to mount a serious challenge in the Bundesliga next season and Diaby knows they need to improve in all areas.

“It is not just about scoring goals. We need to function as a complete team, but that was the case for us only at home last season,” he added.