Official | Sunderland sign Strasbourg midfielder Habib Diarra in club record deal

Sunderland AFC have announced the signing of highly-coveted Strasbourg midfielder and captain Habib Diarra (21). The Black Cats, who have been promoted to the Premier League after defeating Sheffield United in the promotion play-offs final, have reportedly smashed their club record transfer to sign the Senegal international. The 21-year-old has been valued at €37m by Regis Le Bris’ Black Cats.

Diarra has signed a five-year contract with Sunderland AFC. “I’m happy and excited to become a Black Cat and I can’t wait to discover the Stadium of Light and its fans”, the Senegalese midfielder said. “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.”

Strasbourg have planned for Diarra’s exit. The Alsatians have signed 21-year-old Zulte-Waregem midfielder Pape Demba Diop.