Moussa Diaby has increased speculation that he could leave Al-Ittihad during the current summer transfer window after sending a brief message to Bayer Leverkusen defender Edmond Tapsoba.
Reports have suggested the France winger is close to returning to his former club, Bayer Leverkusen, during this summer’s transfer market.
Diaby added to those rumours with a one-word response to a post published by Tapsoba on Instagram. The Burkina Faso international had shared an emotional message expressing his pride at wearing the captain’s armband for Bayer Leverkusen ahead of their first competitive match of the season.
Bayer Leverkusen are due to face Wehen Wiesbaden on Saturday in the first round of the DFB-Pokal.
Replying to Tapsoba’s post, Diaby wrote: “Captain”. Bayer Leverkusen’s official account then responded to the exchange with an eyes emoji, suggesting interest or anticipation among supporters.
The interaction has been interpreted as a possible hint that Diaby could be preparing to return to the German club, although no confirmation of a transfer has been given.
Diaby and Tapsoba were team-mates at Bayer Leverkusen for three years between 2020 and 2023. Diaby left the German side for Aston Villa before moving to Al-Ittihad in 2024.
The French winger made a strong impact after joining the Saudi club. His performances helped Al-Ittihad secure a domestic double in the season before last, but his level dropped during the previous campaign.
That change in form has added further attention to the reports linking Diaby with a move away from the Saudi Pro League side. His short reply to Tapsoba, however, remains the only public indication from the player presented in the report.
Diaby’s future is therefore a subject of growing discussion as clubs continue to operate in the current summer transfer window. His previous relationship with Bayer Leverkusen, along with his public exchange with Tapsoba, has fuelled the possibility of a reunion in Germany.
The reported move would see Diaby return to the club where he played alongside Tapsoba before his spells at Aston Villa and Al-Ittihad. For now, the Instagram exchange has prompted questions over his plans, rather than confirming that he has decided to leave the Saudi club.
Fans can also follow discussion of the story and other football news through the Kooora forums. Ticket information for Roshn Saudi League matches was also promoted alongside the original report.