Valencia are currently prioritizing the recruitment of a center forward at this stage of the summer transfer window and Super Eagles star Umar Sadiq happens to be one of the potential options on their list, Footynaija.com understands.
Sadiq is no stranger to Valencia, having spent the second half of the 2024/2025 campaign on loan at the Mestalla after struggling to lock down consistent playing time at Real Sociedad during the first half of that season.
The lanky Nigeria international enjoyed a productive spell leading the line for Los Che as he bagged a decent tally of 6 goals in 19 appearances across all competitions. He notched five of those goals in La Liga, helping Carlos Corberan’s side stay well clear of the relegation zone.
Despite this, Valencia opted against triggering the €9.5 million purchase option included in Sadiq’s loan contract when his brief spell at the Mestalla came to an end, prompting his eventual return to the Basque Country.
Valencia ‘reconsidering’ Umar Sadiq transfer stance
However, a recent report from Estadio Deportivo has revealed that the Nigerian hitman is among targets being considered by Los Che as they look to decisively sort out their striking department before the start of the new season.
It is believed that Sadiq will be open to returning to Valencia, having enjoyed his short stint at the club last term and despite receiving offers from Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Turkey, the former UD Almeria marksman prefers to remain in Spain where he is already used to the terrain.
On paper, the move looks to be an ideal one, considering the pre-existing relationship between club and player. Sadiq, already familiar with the demands of Corberan’s setup, will return to the Mestalla ready to hit the ground running.
Real Sociedad president Jokin Apperibay recently hinted on the possibility of holding on to the Nigerian striker this summer. But a satisfactory offer for both club and player could see the Kaduna-born striker take his talents elsewhere ahead of the new season.