Nigeria and Valencia star Umar Sadiq. Photo by IMAGO
Umar Sadiq is once again at the centre of a transfer tussle as Spanish side Elche CF and Turkish powerhouse Samsunspor intensify their battle to sign the Nigerian forward from Real Sociedad.
The 28-year-old, who spent the second half of last season on loan at Valencia, remains under contract at Sociedad until 2028 but appears to be surplus to requirements at the Basque club.
Sociedad are eager to offload the Super Eagles striker on a permanent deal, ruling out another loan move which they believe would only further diminish his market value.
Elche, who have sealed promotion to to La Liga, have identified Sadiq as a prime candidate to bolster their attacking line ahead of the new campaign, according to EGD.
Club officials at the Martínez Valero are said to be keen on securing the forward’s services, but face a major stumbling block: Sociedad want a guaranteed purchase clause included in any deal, something Elche may struggle to accommodate given their financial limitations.
Elche, though, is not the only Spanish club eyeing Sadiq, with Getafe also reportedly interested in the former AS Roma star.
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Meanwhile, Turkish giants Samsunspor have entered the fray and are reportedly ready to table a formal offer, according to Fotomac.
The Black Sea outfit — Turkey’s most decorated TFF First League side — are determined to beat their Spanish rivals to the striker’s signature.
With a history of sustained success in Turkish football and a strong ambition to climb further in the Süper Lig, Samsunspor view Sadiq as a statement signing.
Despite the lure of Turkey, Sadiq is believed to favour staying in Spain. His desire to remain in La Liga could give Elche a crucial edge — provided they can meet Sociedad’s terms. The coming weeks are expected to be decisive as both clubs ramp up negotiations.
Sadiq has struggled to recapture his best form since joining Real Sociedad, but a fresh start could reignite the career of a player who once looked destined for the top.
Imhonlamhen Eronmhonsele
Imhonlamhen Eronmhonsele turns into a ball of passion when writing about Nigerian football and its talents, whether rising stars or established legends, locally and abroad.
From the deepest corners of the Middle East, to the green fields of the Americas, to the celebrated grounds in Europe, and the rich soils of Africa, Imhons is more than glad, usually with a glass of a tasty drink nearby, to capture the essence of the game, by connecting the dots between culture, identity, and football.