Super Eagles striker Umar Sadiq today has returned to UD Almeria to join his teammates for preseason ahead of the 2022-23 season.
The 24-year-old striker was in the Super Eagles squad that defeated Sierra Leone 2-1 and crushed Sao Tome and Principe 10-0 during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers in early June.
Although, there are strong reports that the Nigerian international may continue in Andalusia despite links from a variety of European clubs who want his services.
Almeria, who are returning to the La Liga this coming season, kicked off their pre-season preparations four days ago but the lanky forward was absent, having been given an extended break for time with the National Team in the International window.
On his first day back with the Rojiblancos, Sadiq exercised alone in the gym, away from the other team members. But he is expected to join the full team session shortly.
Still, his continued stay at Almeria beyond this summer transfer window is not guaranteed.
After his incredible two-year spell in Almeria, Sadiq is one of the hottest properties in Spanish football at the moment.
Sadiq: wanted home and abroad
The former AS Roma striker has been linked with a move away from Almeria and the likes of Sevilla and Real Betis have been monitoring the situation.
However, La Union have already declared that the asset won’t be leaving Mediterranean Games Stadium on the cheap.
Most recently, La lIga clubs Villarreal and Real Sociedad have also joined the race for Sadiq’s signature. It is only a matter of time before a club coughs out the €20 million needed to convince Almeria to do business.
Links and rumours have also drawn the likes of Ajax and Benfica in the conversation on Sadiq, but the former Nigeria U-23 star is keen on in the Spanish La Liga next season.
Probably in preparations for Umar’s exit, Almeria have signed 18-year-old Serbian striker Marko Milovanovic from Partizan Belgrade.
Sadiq scored 18 league goals last term, including the crucial equalizer in the season finale against Leganes, to secure Almeria’s promotion back to La Liga.
This article was most recently revised and updated 1 year ago
