Transfer Talk: Gunners set sights on dynamic Diaby

Arsenal have reportedly set their sights on Moussa Diaby. 

The tricky Bayer Leverkusen winger has set the Bundesliga alight, bagging nine goals and providing eight assists.

However, the Gunners could face competition for his services with Paris Saint-Germain reportedly interested in a reunion with the forward. 

As the Gunners prepare to end their season by hosting Wolves, preparations will have already begun for their summer plans. 

We take a closer look at one of the potential new arrivals.

Important summer ahead

Mikel Arteta admitted last week that Arsenal's title charge had been affected by their relatively thin squad compared to champions Manchester City.

He said: "When you get closer to the top then the margins are smaller. 

"Having three-to-four injuries or having a full squad in key moments defines a season. So what we have ahead of us in the summer is extremely important and we have to absolutely nail it."

Versatile options like Diaby, who can play on either flank or through the middle, are invaluable at the business end of the season.

Shooting on sight

Diaby’s excellent ball-striking ability makes him a particularly exciting target. 

He shoots frequently, averaging 2.64 shots per 90 in the Bundesliga ahead of this weekend. 

All nine of the Parisian’s goals to this point have come from open play and he is extremely dangerous on fast breaks. 

Given Arsenal’s goalscoring responsibility is spread around the squad, Bayer Leverkusen's No19 could be a perfect addition.

Leading on the pitch

Diaby revealed that Xabi Alonso has entrusted him with the responsibility of leading by example in attack.

He said: "[Xabi Alonso] wants me to contribute, to show that I'm an important player and that I'm capable of pulling the team in the right direction by playing well, scoring goals and providing assists. 

"If my team-mates see me do that, they'll want to do the same themselves. That's why this team is so consistent, everyone here has the same mindset — a winning mentality."

Challenging Saka

Diaby’s arrival would enable Arteta to give Bukayo Saka a rest — something he has not been afforded much in the Premier League this season, clocking 3,131 minutes. 

With Champions League football next season, Arsenal need a player that can step in and perhaps even challenge the Englishman for a starting spot. 

The 23-year-old Frenchman is a brilliant creator, conjuring 58 chances in the league going into this weekend. 

Diaby has also completed 58 dribbles this term and leads the Bundesliga in fast breaks (12) prior to the Bundesliga's final matchday.

Ending on a high

After the disappointing end to the title race for Arsenal, Arteta will want to end the campaign with a win. 

The Gunners' next opponents Wolves have already secured survival despite scoring just 31 goals. 

But Arsenal will have to work hard to get past a side that has managed to keep 11 clean sheets this season, with Saka likely to be crucial to unlocking their defence. 

Having gone so close to the title, Arteta will be keen to go one better next season — and Diaby could help him do just that.