Sadiq Umar: Valencia rekindle interest in Super Eagles striker, but new American at Real Sociedad might block move

Spanish La Liga club Valencia have rekindled their interest in Super Eagles striker Sadiq Umar ahead of the January transfer window, Soccernet.ng reports.

​Sadiq's future at Real Sociedad is still in the balance, as the Super Eagles star is yet to pin down a regular starting spot.

Since joining from Almeria in 2022 for a club-record €20 million, things have not gone well for Sadiq. He suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury in just his second game for the club, and he has not really been himself since then.

​As a result, the 28-year-old striker has been starved of game time at the club. Due to his lack of minutes, he even left on a loan deal to Valencia for the second half of the season.

There, he showed glimpses of his old self. Sadiq contributed six goals in 19 games, helping Valencia claim some important results.

​However, despite his impressive performances for the club, they failed to reach an agreement with Real Sociedad for a permanent deal.

The talks even dragged on until the end of last summer's transfer window, but it did not materialize, even though Sadiq pushed hard for the deal.

​This season, the Super Eagles star has featured in two league games, and he has started just one.

Former Real Sociedad coach Sergio Francisco even promised him more game time a few weeks ago, but he failed to deliver on his promise before his sacking. Still, it does not seem like Sadiq's fortunes will improve. As such, the Super Eagles star is willing to explore other opportunities.

​Valencia Plotting January Transfer For Sadiq Umar

​According to reports from elgoldigital, Valencia are seriously interested in Sadiq Umar, with coach Carlos Corberan pinpointing him as a top target in the January transfer window.

​But Real Sociedad might play hardball. Strong reports indicate that they will soon confirm the appointment of American tactician Pellegrino Matarazzo as coach, just three days after the dismissal of Sergio Francisco.

Pellegrino #Matarazzo is one step away to #RealSociedad as new coach. #transfers https://t.co/9EvAC0w5hh

— Nicolò Schira (@NicoSchira) December 16, 2025

Matarazzo will give all the players a clean slate to impress. This means that Sadiq will also get his chance.

​If the American tactician likes Sadiq, he might stand in the way of a move. Moreover, the Super Eagles striker is still a decent player; all he needs is time, rhythm, and self-confidence. Real Sociedad would also like to keep Sadiq, as he still has a contract until 2028.

​The Super Eagles star will be hoping that whatever happens, he is in a place where he can play football regularly and prove his quality.