Manchester United and Chelsea appear set to miss out on a move for Sunderland midfielder Noah Sadiki, with the Black Cats determined to keep hold of the youngster.
The 20-year-old featured in Sunderland’s memorable Tyne Wear derby victory over Newcastle United on Sunday and has been an ever present in Regis Le Bris’s Premier League side this season. While he is yet to register a goal or assist, his performances have been a major factor behind Sunderland’s strong position in the top half of the table.
Sadiki only joined the club in the summer after completing a £15 million move from Belgian side Union SG, and Sunderland are keen to build around him. According to Football Insider, both Manchester United and Chelsea have been dealt a setback in their interest, with the Wearside club unwilling to entertain offers during the January transfer window.
The report suggests Sunderland are prepared to reject any approaches for Sadiki in the coming weeks, viewing him as central to their long term plans as they push towards European qualification.
Despite interest from two of the Premier League’s biggest clubs, the midfielder is set to remain at the Stadium of Light for now. Sadiki is also among a group of Sunderland players heading to the Africa Cup of Nations this week, where he will represent DR Congo in the tournament taking place in Morocco.
Sunderland’s involvement in AFCON means they will be without several first team options over the festive period, but the club remains firm in its stance on keeping Sadiki.