Sunderland Secures Record Signing: Habib Diarra Joins from Strasbourg

Sunderland breaks club record with the signing of Senegal midfielder Habib Diarra from Strasbourg for £30m, bolstering their squad for the Premier League return.

Sunderland has officially announced the signing of Habib Diarra from Strasbourg in a club-record deal worth £30 million. The 21-year-old Senegalese midfielder, who recently scored against England in a friendly, has committed to a five-year contract at the Stadium of Light.

Diarra, who made 31 appearances for Strasbourg last season, played a pivotal role in helping the club secure a seventh-place finish in Ligue 1, earning them a spot in European football for only the second time in two decades.

"I'm thrilled to join Sunderland and can't wait to experience the Stadium of Light and its passionate fans," Diarra said. "I saw the team's success last season and I promise to give my all for this club. I'm ready to take on the challenge of the Premier League and can't wait to get started."

This signing marks Sunderland's second major acquisition this summer as they gear up for their first Premier League campaign since the 2016-17 season. Diarra is seen as a direct replacement for Jobe Bellingham, who moved to Borussia Dortmund in June for a similar fee.

In addition to Diarra, Sunderland has also secured the permanent signing of Enzo le Fee, who spent the latter half of last season on loan from Roma. These strategic moves highlight Sunderland's ambition to make a strong impact in their return to top-flight football.

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