Super Eagles forward Umar Sadiq is at the centre of a heated transfer standoff with Real Sociedad after making clear his desire to return to Valencia, Soccernet.ng reports.
The 28-year-old Nigerian striker, who impressed during a loan spell with Los Che in the second half of last season, has rejected multiple offers from clubs in Spain and abroad.
Newly promoted Elche, Girona, and Getafe all made approaches, but Sadiq has stood firm, insisting that Valencia remains his first choice, even if it means sacrificing part of his wages.
Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo reports that Sadiq has gone as far as waiving 30 percent of his salary in a bid to force Sociedad’s hand into sanctioning another loan deal with Valencia. The Mestalla club are understood to prefer a loan arrangement with a purchase option, but Sociedad have received stronger financial proposals from elsewhere.
Despite this, the forward has made it clear he is willing to take a pay cut to secure his return.
Reports in Spain reveals Real Sociedad’s transfer activity has been disrupted by Sadiq’s stance. The Basque club were in advanced talks with Getafe for Borja Mayoral, but the move collapsed when Sadiq refused to be included as part of the deal.
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Likewise, an agreement with Girona for midfielder Yangel Herrera, which involved a cash fee plus Sadiq, has stalled, as the striker continues to block any switch that doesn’t involve Valencia.
The tension between player and club reached new heights last weekend when Sadiq was left out of Sociedad’s 1-1 draw with Valencia in La Liga’s opening fixture. His omission only fuelled speculation that a return to Mestalla is edging closer, particularly with Valencia preparing for a tricky away clash at Osasuna this weekend.
Sadiq’s bond with the club is strengthened by fond memories at El Sadar, where he scored a stunning back-heeled equaliser for Valencia in March, a strike that went on to win La Liga’s Goal of the Month. That moment was pivotal in the club’s battle against relegation.
With less than two weeks before the transfer window closes, Sociedad face mounting pressure to find a resolution.
Sadiq scored five goals in 16 appearances while on loan at Valencia.