Sunderland are closing in on Strasbourg captain Habib Diarra, beating Leeds United to the punch after weeks of stalled talks from Elland Road. The Senegal international, highly rated across Ligue 1, is now being lined up for a medicalwith the Black Cats in what could become one of the Championship club’s boldest moves in the summer window. The Habib Diarra Sunderland transfer planned for 2025 is already creating waves in the football community.
Leeds had been working on a deal “for weeks,” according to insider Alan Nixon, but failed to agree personal terms or make a breakthrough with the 21-year-old’s camp. Sunderland have since stepped in — fast and firm — and are believed to be preparing a £35 million package to bring Diarra to Wearside.
Diarra to Sunderland: Deal in Motion
Diarra, who is currently away in Africa, is expected to fly to England for a medical as soon as the final green light is given from Strasbourg. Sources suggest personal terms will not be an obstacle, and Regis Le Bris is eager to make the midfielder one of his centrepieces for Premier League survival.
“Sunderland aren’t waiting anymore. This deal is live — and Leeds may be too late,” said Alan Nixon.
Leeds Stalled – Sunderland Accelerated
While Leeds United made the initial push, ongoing complications with player agreement reportedly frustrated their efforts. Sunderland have moved swiftly with plans for aspects like the Habib Diarra transfer slated for 2025, showing they are serious about surviving the Premier League and outmanoeuvred the Whites on a top-tier target.
This move would also help ease the blow of losing Jobe Bellingham to Borussia Dortmund earlier in the window.
Why Diarra Matters
Diarra isn’t just another midfield option. He’s the captain of Strasbourg at just 21 years old — a player with proven leadership and physical dominance. Sunderland see him as someone who can lift standards both on and off the pitch, particularly in high-pressure survival battles. The anticipated 2025 transfer from Habib Diarra to Sunderland is crucial in this context.
Transfer Table: Sunderland vs Leeds – Diarra Saga
| Club | Status |
|---|---|
| Leeds United | Weeks of talks, no breakthrough |
| Sunderland | £35m package ready, medical being lined up |
| Strasbourg | Open to sale this window |
Analyst Verdict
Diarra’s Premier League readiness is clear — physical, vocal, and tactically flexible. While Leeds hesitated, Sunderland acted decisively with plans for the 2025 transfer, which could reshape their midfield and survival hopes.
Key Insights
- Sunderland preparing £35m deal for Habib Diarra
- Leeds chased him for weeks but couldn’t agree terms
- Strasbourg ready to sell this summer
- Diarra is club captain at 21 and currently in Africa
- Medical in England lined up if deal gets green light
What’s Next?
If Sunderland secure Diarra, they could pivot to sealing deals for Armand Lauriente and Marcin Bulka as part of their summer rebuild under Le Bris. The focus on additional transfers post the 2025 Habib Diarra move could be vital.
Where will Diarra thrive most — Elland Road or the Stadium of Light?
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