Valencia are edging closer to completing the permanent signing of Nigerian striker Sadiq Umar from Real Sociedad, as the club moves decisively to strengthen their squad in a bid to steer clear of relegation, Bold Sports reports.
According to Radio Marca Valencia, the Mestalla outfit have reached an advanced agreement with Real Sociedad for the 28-year-old, who spent the second half of last season on loan at the club. Unlike the previous deal, this move is expected to be a permanent transfer.
Sadiq Umar has already been seen going for his medical, a strong indication that an official announcement is imminent. Valencia are reportedly keen for the striker to resume training immediately, with the aim of making him available for their crucial weekend clash against Elche.
Valencia have been exploring ways to bring Sadiq Umar back since the conclusion of his loan spell last season. During that period, the Super Eagles striker registered six goals in 19 appearances and played a key role as the club fought their way out of a relegation scrap. His contributions helped Valencia finish 12th, just six points shy of Conference League qualification.
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This season, however, Sadiq Umar has struggled for consistent minutes at Real Sociedad, scoring once and providing two assists in seven appearances across all competitions. That situation prompted Valencia to make an initial offer, reportedly a €500,000 loan fee with a mandatory €1 million purchase option. Real Sociedad didn’t even respond to this proposal.
With their league position worsening as Valencia currently sit 18th, the club has since returned with a significantly improved offer. According to Marca, Valencia are now proposing a €3 million permanent transfer, with performance-related bonuses based on the player’s individual goals and the team’s final league position.
On the player side, Sadiq Umar has always prioritised a return to Valencia, a desire that aligns closely with the plans of head coach Carlos Corberán. The Valencia boss views the Nigerian striker as a solution to the team’s ongoing attacking problems, particularly as the fight for survival intensifies.
Having successfully navigated a relegation battle with Sadiq Umar last season, Valencia will be hoping that his permanent return can once again provide the firepower and belief needed to climb the table and secure their La Liga status.
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