Sunderland have completed the signing of Senegal international Habib Diarra from French side RC Strasbourg.
The 21-year-old midfielder has penned a five-year deal at the Stadium of Light after agreeing personal terms and passing a routine medical.
Diarra becomes the second major signing under new head coach Régis Le Bris, joining Enzo Le Fée who arrived earlier from AS Roma.
Diarra’s arrival signals Sunderland’s continued investment in young, high-potential talent as they prepare for life in the Premier League.
“I’m happy and excited to become a Black Cat and I can’t wait to discover the Stadium of Light and its fans,” Diarra said after completing the move.
“Everyone saw last season’s success and I guarantee that I’ll give everything for this team and fight for these colours in the Premier League. I’m ready for this challenge and I can’t wait to get started.”
Diarra captained Strasbourg to one of their most successful seasons in recent memory, leading the youngest squad in Ligue 1 to European qualification — only the club’s second in two decades.
He made 31 appearances in the 2024-25 campaign, scoring five goals and providing four assists. The midfielder has already amassed over 100 senior career appearances.
Sunderland’s Sporting Director, Kristjaan Speakman, expressed high hopes for the new signing.
“Habib is an exciting talent, and we are delighted to welcome him to Sunderland AFC. At 21, he already has more than 100 senior appearances on his resume, and he’s been a captain in one of Europe’s elite leagues. Like Sunderland, Habib is ready for the Premier League.”
Born in France, Diarra represented the country at various youth levels before switching allegiance to Senegal in 2024.
He has already earned 11 caps for the Teranga Lions, including a standout performance in a 3-1 win over England last month.
