Sunderland AFC are poised to smash their transfer record with the acquisition of 21-year-old Senegalese midfielder Habib Diarra from RC Strasbourg. The Black Cats have reportedly agreed to a deal worth £30 million, including add-ons, to secure the highly-rated player. This move signals a significant statement of intent from the newly-promoted Premier League side as they prepare for their return to the top flight.

Diarra's imminent arrival at the Stadium of Light comes as Sunderland moved quickly to secure a replacement for Jobe Bellingham, who recently joined Borussia Dortmund. The fee for Diarra will be paid as £27 million up front, with £3 million in potential add-ons. Personal terms are not expected to be an issue, and Diarra is set to undergo a medical imminently.

The signing of Diarra will eclipse Sunderland's previous transfer record, which was only recently set with the permanent signing of Enzo Le Fee from Roma for £20 million. Diarra's transfer fee could also constitute a record sale for Strasbourg.

Diarra is a Senegalese international who has also represented France at the youth level. He made his professional debut for Strasbourg in October 2021 and has since made almost 100 senior appearances for the club. Known for his energy, technical skills, and ability to break lines, Diarra is considered a dynamic, box-to-box midfielder. Premier League clubs took notice when Diarra scored for Senegal in a friendly against England earlier this month.

Sunderland manager Régis Le Bris and incoming director of football Florent Ghisolfi are utilizing their contacts in French football to identify and recruit talented players like Diarra. Sunderland also are in talks with OGC Nice to recruit goalkeeper Marcin Bulka. The Black Cats beat off competition from other clubs, including fellow Premier League newcomers Leeds United and Everton, to secure Diarra's signature. According to Fabrizio Romano, documents are being exchanged with Strasbourg, and a medical is already booked.

Strasbourg president Marc Keller acknowledged Diarra's expected departure, stating that he had promised the player that he could leave if a suitable offer arrived. Diarra's statistics for Strasbourg include 94 appearances with 10 goals and 8 assists. In the 2024/2025 season, he played in the vast majority of the side's Ligue 1 games, making 30 appearances and playing 2,357 minutes.

This transfer marks a bold investment and a strategic shift for Sunderland as they aim for long-term Premier League stability.