Saudi club ‘to target’ Sunderland’s Habib Diarra after AC Milan and Atlético snub | OneFootball

Sunderland midfielder Habib Diarra is attracting growing Saudi Pro League interest ahead of the summer window. Media Foot reports that an unnamed club has identified the 22-year-old as a priority and stepped up their pursuit.

The side is said to be ready to spend heavily to land him. No formal bid has been made, but initial contact has taken place and the situation remains at an early stage, the report said.

Diarra joined Sunderland from RC Strasbourg in July 2025 for a fee understood to be around £30 million, a club record purchase, after turning down interest from AC Milan and Atlético Madrid.

He made an immediate impact before a groin injury in September sidelined him for close to three months. Since returning from the Africa Cup of Nations, he has re-established himself under Régis Le Bris, starting regularly and impressing in midfield.

His performances for Sunderland and Senegal have not gone unnoticed outside Europe. He is under contract until 2030, leaving the club in a strong position should interest intensify.

Sunderland’s stance on a sale is unclear, though any deal would likely require a significant offer given his contract and importance. He has featured in 14 Premier League matches this season since returning from injury, scoring against Burnley and Leeds United.

Source: Sunderland Echo