Arsenal probably have Bayer Leverkusen's Moussa Diaby on their list of targets, says journalist Pete O'Rourke.

The north London club look set to miss out on another target in Leeds United winger Raphinha, and O'Rourke thinks that could see them turn to Diaby.

GiveMeSport Transfer Verdict

GiveMeSport Transfer Verdict

What is the latest news involving Diaby?

According to 90min, Arsenal's Premier League rivals Newcastle United are ready to make Diaby their record transfer this summer.

If he is to leave Leverkusen, the Frenchman is going to cost a lot of money, with The Sun claiming prior that it may take £50m to get him out of the BayArena.

Arsenal's main winger target is Raphinha, and The Athletic revealed last month that the Gunners put in an unsuccessful bid for the player.

They could yet return, but a move to the Emirates looks unlikely, as it is being widely reported that the Brazilian wants to join Barcelona.

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What has O'Rourke said about Diaby and Arsenal?

O'Rourke thinks Mikel Arteta and Edu could enter the race for Diaby now that Arsenal have little chance of signing Raphinha.

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, the journalist said: "Diaby is probably on the list of a number of top clubs who are looking at attacking wingers this summer, and I'm sure Arsenal are no different.

"Obviously, they tried for Raphinha, but it looks like he wants only to join Barcelona, so I'm sure they're looking at other potential targets. And Diaby, as I said, will be on the list of a lot of top clubs because he's been a proven performer for Leverkusen and also for France."

Would Diaby be a good alternative to Raphinha?

Yes. In fact, perhaps the 23-year-old could even be a better signing than the Leeds man.

Last season, Diaby scored 13 goals and provided 12 assists in his league, while Raphinha registered 11 and three respectively.

Over the last year, the France international has ranked in the 91st percentile for non-penalty goals and the 94th for assists among his positional peers (via FBref), so he is clearly a wide man who is very productive.

It makes it no surprise that Leverkusen want so much money for him - that and the fact that Diaby can play on both wings, which makes him an even more attractive proposition.

Again, £50m is a lot, but it looks like Diaby could be worth every penny. At his age, he has time to get even better, but he has also proven that he can make an impact now, so perhaps Arteta should be all over this.