Elche have entered the race to sign Nigeria international Umar Sadiq from Real Sociedad, posing direct competition to Valencia, who are also keen on reuniting with the striker ahead of the 2025/26 LaLiga campaign.
Sadiq, 28, spent the second half of last season on loan at Valencia, and while his parent club Real Sociedad is open to a permanent transfer, interest from within Spain has intensified.
El Desmarque reports that Elche have established contact with the player, presenting a serious bid to secure his services.
Back in LaLiga after securing promotion last season, Elche are eager to bolster their attacking options and view Sadiq as an ideal target.
The club is reportedly offering him a guaranteed starting role — a key factor they hope will tip the balance in their favour.
With top-flight experience from stints at Almeria, Real Sociedad, and Valencia, the Nigerian forward is seen as a ready-made solution to lead Elche’s frontline.
Valencia, meanwhile, have not stepped away from the chase. The club has tabled a fresh loan proposal in hopes of keeping Sadiq at the Mestalla, where he made a decent impression during his short spell.
However, their lack of a firm offer for a permanent deal could weaken their hand in the face of Elche’s more aggressive pursuit.
As Sadiq considers his options, the promise of consistent playing time at Elche and their determination to strike a deal may prove persuasive.
Real Sociedad are expected to decide on the striker’s future in the coming days, with both clubs pressing for a resolution before the start of the new season.
