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Coach Sergio Francisco: ‘Sadiq Umar still in Real Sociedad’s plans amid transfer uncertainty’
By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde
Real Sociedad head coach Sergio Francisco has insisted that Umar Sadiq remains part of his plans for the new season despite ongoing transfer speculation.
The Nigerian striker was left out of the squad for Sociedad’s opening La Liga clash with Valencia on Saturday and has yet to be assigned a shirt number for the campaign.
His absence fueled rumors of an imminent departure, but Francisco moved to clarify the situation after the match at Mestalla.
“Sadiq is in open talks; there are all kinds of conversations, but that doesn’t mean he’s not in the plans,” the coach told ElDesmarque.
“I wouldn’t say for sure whether he’s leaving or staying.”
The 28-year-old still has a contract with the Basque club until 2028 but spent last season on loan at Valencia, where he registered six goals in 19 appearances.
On Saturday, negotiations between both clubs resumed on following earlier breakdowns.
According to Marca, Valencia are proposing a loan move covering Sadiq’s full wages and an additional loan fee, though Sociedad are holding out for around €1.5m.
Aside from Valencia, Sadiq has also been linked with Alavés, Elche, and Getafe this summer, but no deal has materialized.
