Godwin ObajeNoah Sadiki Reveals Why He Chose Sunderland Over Leeds United in £17.5m Transfer Decision
DR Congo international Noah Sadiki has shed light on his decision to join Sunderland despite concrete interest from Leeds United, following his £17.5m move from Belgian side Union Saint-Gilloise.
The 20-year-old midfielder had emerged as a key target for Leeds United this summer, with the Championship side actively pursuing midfield reinforcements ahead of the new season. However, Sadiki instead opted to join the Black Cats, who secured his signature in a deal that could rise to £17.5 million with add-ons.
In a candid interview with Belgian outlet Nieuwsblad, Sadiki confirmed that Leeds had made a move to sign him, but the appeal of Sunderland’s project ultimately proved more convincing.
“There was interest from Leeds United, yes,” Sadiki revealed. “But Sunderland came with a clear plan. They didn’t just talk — they showed me exactly what they expected from me, where I would fit into the team, and how I could develop further. That clarity made a big difference.”
Sadiki’s move marks a significant step in his career following a strong season with Union Saint-Gilloise, where he was a regular fixture in the starting XI. His performances attracted attention across Europe, but Sunderland’s ambition and vision for youth development appear to have swayed the decision in their favour.
Speaking about the transition to English football, Sadiki admitted the move has already been eye-opening.
“I immediately realised that I had ended up in a whole new world here,” he said. “The transfer was leaked on July 2nd, but I knew two days earlier that there was serious interest. It happened quickly, but I had time to reflect — and I knew this was the right step.”
Sunderland have been active in the transfer market under their sporting model, which prioritises young talent with high potential resale value. Sadiki fits that mold perfectly, and the club believe he can quickly become a standout figure in the Championship and beyond.
For Leeds, the loss of Sadiki is another setback in a summer filled with near-misses. The club had hoped to secure the midfielder to bolster their squad depth and aid their push for promotion after missing out last season. While the Whites are still expected to be busy in the window, missing out on Sadiki to a league rival is likely to sting, especially given the player’s admission that a clear development plan was the difference-maker.
Sunderland, meanwhile, will feel buoyed by their successful pursuit of one of the Belgian league’s standout young midfielders, and Sadiki’s arrival will raise expectations heading into the new campaign.
With the season fast approaching, all eyes will be on how quickly the 20-year-old adapts to English football — and whether Leeds United will regret letting him slip through their fingers.
Godwin Obaje
