In a potential transfer battle, both Almeria and Manchester United are eyeing the signature of Super Eagles forward, Umar Sadiq Mesbah according to Soccernet.NG.
Sadiq, 26, who suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury that sidelined him for most of the previous season, is garnering attention from the English Premier League giants and his former club, U.D. Almeria.
Sadiq, currently playing for Real Sociedad, has had a challenging start to the season, featuring in thirteen matches without finding the back of the net, managing just one assist. His stint with Real Sociedad began in September 2022. Unfortunately, Sadiq’s promising start turned sour as he suffered a torn ACL in his right knee shortly after his La Liga debut, forcing him to miss the remainder of the season.
Reports suggest that Almeria is keen on rekindling the successful partnership they had with Sadiq during his previous tenure with the club. The Nigerian forward scored an impressive 43 goals and provided 13 assists in 84 games for Rojiblancos La Unión Almeriensistas UDA Indálicos.
On the other side of the pitch, Manchester United is looking to bolster its squad depth, particularly in the striking department. With Marcus Rashford struggling for form and fitness concerns surrounding Anthony Martial and Rasmus Hojlund, manager Erik Ten Haag sees Sadiq as a potential solution..
However, both potential suitors are aware of the impending Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), and they will closely monitor whether Sadiq will be included in Jose Peseiro’s squad. The tournament could see the forward miss at least a month of club football if called up, prompting Almeria and Manchester United to carefully evaluate the timing and impact of any potential transfer.
According to Transfermarkt Sadiq’s current market value is around €18 million.
