Sunderland snap up African talents

by Staff Reporter

Tuesday Jul 01, 2025. 13:00

Sunderland are stocking up on talent ahead of their return to the Premier League, with the team signing Senegalese midfielder Habib Diarra for a club record fee and closing in on the signature of Mozambican defender Reinildo Mandava.

The Black Cats signed Diarra from Ligue 1 side Strasbourg for a full fee of €35.5 million, breaking the club’s transfer record set just last month for Roma’s Enzo Le Fee.

Diarra registered four goals and five assists in 30 Ligue 1 matches last season, helping Strasbourg qualify for European football. The 21-year-old made his debut for Senegal last year and has since scored four goals in 11 games for his national side.

Sunderland are also close to securing Reinildo Mandava’s signature, as the left-back has parted ways with Atlético Madrid.

The Spanish club announced the player’s departure on their X accounts on Monday, saying: “An example of dedication, courage and heart, of overcoming… Thank you so much for these years defending our colors, Rei! We wish you all the best in your future endeavors.”

Mandava, who has made 49 appearances for Mozambique, is set for a two-year deal with The Black Cats, according to transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano.

By Nic Gleeson