Sadiq Umar could be on the move again as La Liga side Alaves are preparing to make a move for the Super Eagles striker, who has struggled to settle at Real Sociedad. According to reports, the club is now ready to act on their long-standing interest in the Nigerian forward.
Alaves have been monitoring Sadiq throughout the summer and now look likely to bid for him. The 28-year-old striker is no stranger to Spanish football, having made a name for himself at Almeria with 43 goals and 13 assists in just 84 games. That impressive form earned him a club-record €20 million move to Real Sociedad in 2022.
Big Move, Big Setback
Things went downhill quickly for Sadiq after his dream transfer. Just three games into his Sociedad career, he suffered a serious knee injury (an anterior cruciate ligament tear) that ruled him out for the rest of the season.
In his second year, injuries continued to hold him back. Even when fit, he was unable to recapture the form that made him one of La Liga’s most promising talents. Despite a few promising moments, his impact was limited.
In search of regular football, he joined Valencia on loan midway through last season. That switch gave him a brief revival. He scored six goals in 19 games and helped the team with his energy and physical presence. Though there were talks of a permanent move, Valencia chose not to pursue a full deal.
Alaves to the Rescue?
Now back at Sociedad, Sadiq’s chances of regular playing time seem slim. The club appears to have moved on, and he is not expected to play a key role next season.
With Alaves and Getafe both linked to him in recent weeks, Alaves have now stepped forward as the front-runners to sign him. Spanish outlet Solofichajes reports that Alaves are now preparing an official bid for the striker.
Sadiq is currently valued at around €5 million on Transfermarkt, a steep drop from the €20 million Sociedad paid three years ago. Still, the club is likely to ask for more, especially since he still has three years left on his contract.
However, given his inconsistent form and high wages, Real Sociedad may be open to accepting a lower fee just to free up space in the squad.
For Sadiq Umar, a move to Alaves could provide the clean break he needs to restart his career in Spain. If the deal goes through, it might be his best chance to show he still has what it takes to succeed at the top level.
