La Liga side Valencia have intensified their search for a new striker and have opened talks with Real Sociedad to bring back Super Eagles forward Sadiq Umar on loan, Bold Sports reports.
According to transfer expert Matteo Moretto, the Nigerian is one of the leading candidates on Valencia’s shortlist, alongside Mallorca’s Cyle Larin and Girona’s Bojan Miovski, with the latter seen as a more straightforward option to secure.
Sadiq, who spent the second half of last season on loan at Mestalla, has remained on Valencia’s radar ever since his departure on June 30 when his deal expired. During his time there, he recorded six goals in 19 appearances, helping the club escape a relegation battle.
Despite interest from other La Liga clubs such as Celta Vigo, Girona and Alavés, Valencia have remained the most persistent suitor throughout the summer and are now pushing to finalise an agreement.
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Real Sociedad only received their first formal proposal for Sadiq last week, highlighting the lack of concrete offers despite enquiries from elsewhere. The club had been hoping for bids from abroad, particularly from Qatar and Saudi Arabia, but the expected moves never materialised.
Valencia, meanwhile, have kept their options open while continuing to prioritise Sadiq, who fits their attacking profile. The club’s initial proposal involved a loan deal with a set fee plus performance-related bonuses tied to appearances and goals, while also covering the striker’s full wages.
Real Sociedad, however, have been holding out for a permanent sale, creating a tug-of-war between the two clubs.
Negotiations are now at a decisive stage, with Valencia expected to slightly improve their offer in order to reach common ground. For Corberán’s side, patience has been key, as they had planned to wait until the final two weeks of the transfer window to push hardest for Sadiq and secure him under more favorable terms.
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