Seven-time Europa League champions have reportedly ended their pursuit of Super Eagles striker Sadiq Umar due to concerns over his performance, Soccernet.ng reports.
Since joining Real Sociedad from Almeria, the towering Nigerian striker has only scored four goals in 50 appearances for the club and is yet to score any goals this season.
Sevilla, who are looking to offload Kelechi Iheanacho due to this same lack of goals, has reportedly closed their door not only because of his lacklustre goal-scoring form but also because of his significant salary demands.
Initially considered a potential replacement for Iheanacho, the Real Sociedad forward seems unlikely to land in Seville as the club shifts its attention to other targets.
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A Tough Spell at Real Sociedad
Sadiq Umar has slowly adjusted to life at Real Sociedad. After joining the Basque side from Almería in 2022, the striker suffered a severe injury that sidelined him for most of last season.
Despite recovering, his contributions this term have been minimal—just 482 minutes across 11 games, with no goals to show for his efforts.
Alguacil’s recent comments about a squad member seeking a January exit were widely interpreted as directed at Sadiq, which plays up the growing divide between the player and the club.
Sevilla’s Search for Firepower
Sevilla’s need to bolster their attack has become increasingly urgent, with their current forwards struggling to score goals.
While Dodi Lukebakio has been a bright spot with seven goals, the likes of Iheanacho, Chidera Ejuke, and Isaac Romero have been underwhelming with their performance on the pitch.
Sevilla’s sporting director, Victor Orta, had initially identified Sadiq as a potential solution to their attacking woes. However, doubts about the striker’s ability to adapt quickly and deliver results have seen the club reconsider its priorities. Sevilla are now looking at other options, including Brazilian striker Juninho Vieira, who plays for Qarabağ FK.
Juninho Gains Priority
Juninho has emerged as the frontrunner for a January move to Sevilla. Sevilla recently submitted an initial €2 million bid, which Qarabağ rejected, reportedly holding out for €5 million.
Sevilla are expected to table an improved offer, with the Brazilian striker’s profile aligning more closely with their needs for immediate impact.
What’s Next for Sadiq?
The representatives of the Super Eagles attacker are actively looking for the best route to revive the Nigerian star's career following reports on Sevilla's withdrawal from the race to sign him.
Meanwhile, his club is reportedly open to loaning him out or permanently offloading him during the January transfer window. Sadiq’s future remains uncertain as his time at Real Sociedad may be nearing an end.
I believe it’s incorrect to include Ejuke among players with underwhelming performances in Sevilla. Ejuke has been out with hamstring injury since last weekend of October. Before then he was a big influence in the squad, and was building great momentum from game to game. His contributions in attack go beyond goals and assists, earning him a couple of man of the match awards in the 9 games he played before the injury.