Noah Sadiki: Sunderland make crucial decision about United target’s future | OneFootball

Manchester United’s plans to sign emerging Sunderland midfielder Noah Sadiki this month may not come to fruition. The Red Devils are looking ahead to a fresh start after parting ways with Ruben Amorim at the beginning of this year.

Darren Fletcher was in interim charge for two games, before Michael Carrick took over as caretaker manager for the remainder of the season. In his first game in charge, the Englishman secured a convincing 2-0 win over Manchester City at Old Trafford in the Premier League.

While the result improved the mood at the Theatre of Dreams, United are also preparing to strengthen the squad this year. A new midfielder remains at the top of their priority list, and a recent report relayed by The Peoples Person states that the Red Devils have identified Sadiki as an option for the job.

Premier League’s rising star

Sadiki arrived at Sunderland from Union SG in the summer of 2025 as a relatively unknown player, in a deal reported to be around £15 million. The transfer would soon prove to be a bargain, with the defensive midfielder’s impressive performances now endearing him to clubs across the league.

The 21 year old has been a key figure for the Black Cats this season, registering 18 appearances in all competitions, all of which have been starts.

Noah Sadiki Stats: 2025/26 Season

Source: Transfermarkt.

United are looking for Casemiro’s long-term replacement, with the player set to turn 34 next month and his contract due to expire this summer. The Red Devils signed Manuel Ugarte as a possible replacement for the Brazilian, but he has failed to live up to expectations, prompting the club to return to the market.

United are reportedly planning a swap deal involving the Uruguayan and Sadiki this month in a bid to address their midfield woes. However, an update on the situation has now emerged.

Sunderland will not consider Sadiki’s departure

According to The Northern Echo, Sunderland have no desire to let the DR Congo international leave this month. The report states: “There have been suggestions that the Old Trafford hierarchy are willing to include Manuel Ugarte in a possible deal for the Sunderland midfielder, with PSR considerations meaning a cash-plus-player deal would be more attractive to Manchester United than a straight purchase.”

“It doesn’t matter what offer is placed on the table this month, though, as Sunderland’s executive team are adamant Sadiki will not be going anywhere.”

“The DR Congo international signed a five-year contract when he moved to Wearside in the summer, and the Black Cats’ strong financial position means they are not obliged to sell anyone, even if they opt to make additions of their own this month.”

“They certainly have no interest in entertaining offers for Sadiki, who is regarded as one of the club’s ‘crown jewels’ given his rate of development this season and potential for further improvement given his age and relative lack of Premier League experience.”

Final Thoughts

Sadiki’s Premier League experience makes him an enticing prospect for United, and he also fits the club’s recently reformed youth-centric transfer strategy. While a January move looks unlikely, the Red Devils could return for the player at the end of this season.

Featured image George Wood via Getty Images

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