Sunderland to smash club record transfer to sign Strasbourg midfielder Habib Diarra | OneFootball

Sunderland AFC have reached an agreement with Ligue 1 side Strasbourg to sign their highly-coveted midfielder and captain Habib Diarra (21), according to a report from Foot Mercato. The Black Cats, who have been promoted to the Premier League after defeating Sheffield United in the promotion play-offs final, are set to smash their club record transfer to sign Diarra. The outlet understands that Sunderland’s transfer fee rises to €35m, taking into account add-ons, outbidding Leeds’ previous offer.

Sunderland AFC were in the market for a midfielder after parting ways with Jobe Bellingham, who followed in his older brother’s footsteps in signing for Bundesliga giants Borussia Dortmund. As for Diarra, he was allowed to leave Liam Rosenior’s Alsatians, should a suitable bid go their way. Selling Diarra for €35 million would also constitute a record for the Ligue 1 side.

Foot Mercato understands that Diarra has also given his green light to sign for the Premier League side. Premier League clubs had taken notice of Diarra when the midfielder scored for Senegal in a friendly against England on June 10, and the Wearside outfit has now won the race for his signing.

GFFN | Bastien Cheval