Intermediaries contacted several English clubs, including Tottenham, Aston Villa, Crystal Palace, West Ham, and Sunderland, to explore a potential January transfer for Al-Ittihad's winger, Moussa Diaby. Diaby is a 26-year-old French international. While there was initial interest, the discussions did not advance. According to sources who informed TEAMtalk, a potential transfer was unworkable because of the tax implications of a mid-season return to England. These sources stated that players face a significant tax penalty if they return from Saudi Arabia before a two-year period has passed. After Diaby and his representatives were informed of the financial impact, they began considering options in continental Europe. The winger has 11 caps for France, has scored 2 goals and provided 5 assists in 16 Saudi Pro League appearances this season. Inter Milan has been reported as a potential destination for the player, and reports in January 2026 mentioned a possible loan with a mandatory €35 million purchase option. According to Transfermarkt, Diaby has a current market value of €28.00m. He moved to Al Ittihad from Aston Villa in July 2024 for a reported €60 million.