Diaby completes Saudi switch from Aston Villa

Aston Villa’s Moussa Diaby has completed a reported £50million move to Al-Ittihad, the Premier League club confirmed on Wednesday.

Diaby, who became Villa’s record signing following his arrival from Bayer Leverkusen, helped Unai Emery’s side secure Champions League football last season.

The 25-year-oldmade 54 appearances in all competitions, scoring 10 goals, three of which came during their semi-final run inthe Europa Conference League.

Diaby joins fellow compatriotsKarim Benzema and N’Golo Kante at the club, although the latter has been linked with a return to the Premier League.

Al-Ittihad finished fifth in the Saudi Pro League last season, losing four of their last six games to miss out on qualification for theAFC Champions League Two group stage.

Diaby thanked fans on social media, writing: "Villans, thank you for everything. It’s time to say goodbye. 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."