Sunderland have once again moved ahead of Leeds United in the summer transfer market, securing deals for both Noah Sadiki and Djordje Petrovic — marking the second and third time they’ve outmaneuvered their fellow Premier League newcomers during this window.
Both sides are aiming to significantly bolster their squads in hopes of solidifying their place in the Premier League. Leeds return after two seasons away, while Sunderland are making their first top-flight appearance since 2017. With the last six promoted clubs all being relegated the following season, the pressure is on both teams to avoid a similar fate.
Given their likely positions in the bottom half of the table, it’s unsurprising they’ve been targeting similar players. Sunderland struck first over the weekend, landing Strasbourg’s standout midfielder Habib Diarra for just over £30 million — a club-record fee. Diarra has now officially joined Sunderland on a five-year deal, after Leeds had a £22 million bid rejected.
Now, Sunderland have once again bested Leeds, this time by securing two more of their transfer targets: Union St. Gilloise’s Noah Sadiki and Chelsea goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic. Leeds had a £11 million offer for Sadiki turned down earlier in the week, but Sunderland are believed to have sealed a deal worth around €17 million (£14.7m). According to Sky Sports’ Sacha Tavolieri, Sadiki is set for his medical in Paris, with Sunderland’s sporting director Florent Ghisolfi already in attendance.
Meanwhile, Sunderland have also agreed terms with Chelsea to sign Petrovic, who shone last season while on loan at Strasbourg. Chelsea are reportedly set to receive €25 million (£21.6m) for the Serbian international, who has seven caps for his country. Although Leeds were linked with the 25-year-old back in March, no official move materialized, allowing Sunderland to swoop in.
Petrovic’s arrival is expected to provide strong competition for Sunderland’s current No. 1, Anthony Patterson, a local product who’s made 168 appearances for the club over the past three seasons.
Leeds Transfer Update:
Despite missing out on Sadiki and Petrovic, Leeds may not have considered them priority targets. The club has been recently linked with a towering German midfielder, though any deal would require a significant outlay. Additionally, Leeds are accelerating talks over other key signings following the acquisition of Sebastiaan Bornauw, with interest in a goalkeeper from Angers and a £50 million-rated Chelsea player.
There are also fresh reports about Leeds’ pursuit of a talented young Real Madrid attacker, with the club believed to be preparing a £17 million bid for the rising star.
Petrovic’s Impact at Strasbourg:
Petrovic impressed significantly during his loan spell at Strasbourg last season, a performance that has now earned him a Premier League move and a fresh opportunity to compete at the highest level.
Leave a Reply