Sunderland beat Leeds and Milan to Senegal star Diarra

Sunderland have agreed a fee with Strasbourg for Senegal international Habib Diarra.

The newly promoted Wearsiders will pay £27million, rising to £30m, for the midfielder, who starred in his country’s recent 3-1 win over England at the City Ground.

Diarra made his debut for Strasbourg in 2021 and has quickly grown in importance, captaining the side last season.

🚨🔴⚪️ EXCLUSIVE: Sunderland agree deal to sign Habib Diarra as new midfielder from RC Strasbourg, here we go!

Understand agreement has been reached tonight between clubs for €35.5m package add-ons included.

Sell-on clause also included and medical tests booked. #SAFC 💣 pic.twitter.com/3MTiBqhmc1

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 28, 2025

Reports suggest Sunderland have beaten off competition from Leeds, AC Milan and Eintracht Frankfurt to sign the 21-year-old, who is due for a medical in the coming days.

Sunderland back in the Premier League

It is an exciting addition for Regis Le Bris’ side, who beat Sheffield United in the play-off final in May to secure their return to the top flight after an eight-year absence.

Sunderland have also been linked with Lazio midfielder Matteo Guendouzi and Nice goalkeeper Marcin Bulka.

Should Diarra complete a move to the Stadium of Light, it would be a record fee for Sunderland, surpassing the £20m they shelled out for Enzo Le Fee after promotion was secured.

Sunderland sold Jobe Bellingham to Borussia Dortmund for an initial £27.8m prior to the Club World Cup while Wembley hero Tommy Watson joined Brighton for £10m.

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