Aston Villa and Newcastle United had offers for Como forward Assane Diao rejected during the summer transfer window, according to Sport Witness. The outlet, writing yesterday, cited reporting from Gazzetta dello Sport stating that Como owner Mirwan Suwarso issued a categorical refusal when both Premier League clubs approached the Serie A side.
Diao joined Como from Real Betis for a fee of €12m. His performances since arriving in Italy have significantly increased his standing, with Sport Witness claiming his current valuation sits well above €50m. The 21-year-old Senegalese attacker has scored twice in Serie A this season and also found the net in the Champions League last week.
Gazzetta dello Sport, as referenced by Sport Witness, notes that Diao's tactical discipline has improved under manager Cesc Fabregas. The Italian newspaper highlights his willingness to track back and his ability to operate across the attacking line as key factors in his development at the lakeside club.
In response to the summer interest, Como are reportedly considering a contract renewal that would tie Diao to the club until 2031. Sport Witness suggests such an agreement would leave the Italian side under no pressure to sell, particularly as they have not yet sanctioned a major departure since their rise into European competition.
With the summer window having closed on 1 September, Premier League clubs cannot complete a signing until the January 2027 window opens. Any renewed pursuit by Villa would therefore need to wait until the new year, assuming Como's stance softens or the player pushes for a move.
