According to reports from Foot Mercato, Sunderland AFC has successfully reached an agreement with French Ligue 1 club Strasbourg regarding the transfer of their sought-after 21-year-old midfielder and captain, Habib Diarra. The Black Cats, who recently achieved promotion to the Premier League following their play-off victory against Sheffield United, are now poised to shatter their previous club transfer record to secure Diarra`s services. Sources suggest that the transfer fee could potentially rise to €35 million with add-ons included, a figure that reportedly surpassed a prior bid from Leeds United.
Sunderland`s search for a new midfielder intensified after Jobe Bellingham`s departure to join his brother Jude at Bundesliga giants Borussia Dortmund. Strasbourg were understood to be open to allowing Diarra to leave, provided a suitable offer was presented. A sale at the reported €35 million valuation would also mark a record outgoing transfer fee for the French club.
Foot Mercato further indicates that Habib Diarra himself has given his approval for the move to the Premier League. Several Premier League clubs had reportedly shown interest in the midfielder, especially after he scored for Senegal in a friendly match against England on June 10th. The Wearside club appears to have now won the competition to sign the talented player.
