Umar Sadiq has been excluded from Real Sociedad’s pre-season tour of Japan, fuelling speculation that the Nigerian striker’s time at the La Liga club may be drawing to a close.
The 28-year-old forward, who joined Sociedad from Almería in 2022 for €20 million, has struggled to establish himself at the Basque side, enduring an injury-plagued spell marked by inconsistency and limited opportunities.
His omission from the squad travelling to Asia, as well as the team’s opening pre-season friendly against Pau FC in France, suggests a significant shift in his status at the club.
According to Cadena SER, new head coach Sergio Francisco has made it clear that Sadiq does not figure in his plans for the upcoming campaign.
As a result, the Super Eagles international has been training away from the main group while the club explores potential destinations for a transfer.
After a six-month loan at Valencia last season—during which he scored six goals in 19 appearances—Sadiq returned to San Sebastián hoping for a fresh start.
However, Real Sociedad’s current stance signals a possible exit, with two years still remaining on his contract.
Interest in the striker remains, particularly from Valencia, who continue to monitor his situation.
Reports indicate the Mestalla club would be keen on bringing him back, but financial constraints are causing hesitation.
Sociedad’s reported €8–9 million asking price is proving to be a stumbling block, and Valencia are believed to be waiting until the latter stages of the transfer window in the hope of negotiating a lower fee.
Miguel Corona, Valencia’s head of recruitment, is said to still hold Sadiq in high regard.
Meanwhile, a return to Almería—where Sadiq previously thrived, scoring prolifically during their 2021–22 promotion campaign—is also under consideration.
The Segunda División side are seeking a replacement for top scorer Luis Suárez, and Sadiq is among the leading names on their shortlist alongside Lucas Boyé.
For now, Sadiq remains in limbo—training individually, uncertain of his future, and awaiting the next chapter in his career.
With the Africa Cup of Nations fast approaching in December, the striker is keen to secure regular playing time and revive his standing with the Nigerian national team.
