Habib Diarra ‘to be targeted’ by Saudi Pro League club after Milan and Atlético snub | OneFootball

Media Foot reports that an unnamed Saudi Pro League club has made Habib Diarra, 22, a priority for the summer and is ready to invest heavily to sign the Sunderland midfielder.

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

He impressed early on before a groin injury in September kept him out for close to three months. After returning from the Africa Cup of Nations, he has become a regular under Régis Le Bris.

His displays for Sunderland and Senegal have drawn attention beyond Europe. No formal bid has been lodged, although initial contact has been made and the situation remains at an early stage, the report said.

Diarra is under contract until 2030, which leaves Sunderland in a strong position if interest intensifies. The club’s stance on a sale is unclear, and any deal would likely demand a significant offer given his importance.

He has made a strong impression in the Premier League, featuring in 14 matches this season and scoring against Burnley and Leeds United.

Source: Sunderland Echo