Nigerian international Sadiq Umar has joined Valencia on a loan deal until the end of the season. The agreement includes an option-to-buy clause.

Sadiq Umar has struggled to impress at his parent club, Real Sociedad, since signing for Los Txuri-Urdin in 2022 from Almería for £20 million. He was brought in as a replacement for Alexander Isak but has failed to meet expectations.

In his first season, Umar was ruled out early due to a devastating cruciate ligament injury that sidelined him for the entire campaign. He returned last season but struggled to make an impact under first-team manager Imanol Alguacil. This season has followed a similar pattern, with the 27-year-old making only eleven appearances. As a result, he has opted for a move elsewhere to secure more game time.

A few days into the January transfer window, Valencia initiated talks with the player’s agent and Real Sociedad. According to Fabrizio Romano, the parties agreed on a deal to bring the Nigerian striker to Mestalla.

Sadiq Umar will be hoping to make a significant contribution to Valencia’s attack as Los Ches aim to retain their La Liga status. He will wear the number 12 jersey and becomes the second Nigerian to play for the club, following Stephen Sunday.