Softfootball can report that Sunderland have landed Senegalese midfielder Habib Diarra ahead of their return to the Premier League.
The Black Cat confirmed the signing of the 21-year-old former Strasbourg player in a deal reportedly worth £30 million, which is also the club’s biggest deal.
The 21-year-old midfielder, who scored against England in a friendly at the City Ground in June, will now stay with the English side for five years and becomes the club’s second major signing of the summer.
According to BBC, Diarra penned a five-year deal with the English side after denying several suitors.
The Senegalese star made 31 appearances across all competitions for Strasbourg last season, helping the French club finish seventh in Ligue 1 and secure a rare European spot. Upon penning his signature he stated;
I’m happy and excited to become a Black Cat, and I can’t wait to discover the Stadium of Light and its fans,
Diarra also said after completing his move.
Everyone saw last season’s success, and I guarantee that I’ll give everything for this team and fight for these colours in the Premier League. I’m ready for this challenge, and I can’t wait to get started.
Earlier, Softfootball reported the tussle from several English clubs, including Chelsea, who are reportedly preparing a €30m move for Strasbourg’s Habib Diarra after the midfielder’s proposed switch to Leeds United collapsed.
Meanwhile, the move was a swift one, a replacement that cost the newcomers the entire fee they received for Bellingham on the Senegalese, who was previously linked with Aston Villa, Brentford, and Leeds United.
Sunderland begins their Premier League race next month when they welcome West Ham to the Stadium of Light.
