Leeds United told what they’re missing out on as Habib Diarra makes Sunderland debut, ‘he sees things’

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It was just over a month ago that Leeds United tabled a £22m bid for Strasbourg captain Habib Diarra. It felt like the start of Leeds’ busy window beginning to heat up.

Fast forward until now, and Diarra is one of six signings made by Sunderland, three of which had been linked with Leeds before they chose to move to Wearside. Diarra has ended up at Sunderland for £30m.

Admirably, Adam Underwood is keen not to overpay on players. With PSR breathing down Leeds’ neck, the club mustn’t pay too much for signings. But that means Leeds will fail to sign the players they want.

Sunderland have spent more on both Diarra and Noah Sadiki, while a move for Sean Longstaff has failed. Whether Sunderland have overpaid on Diarra remains to be seen, but ultimately, they have got their man.

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Romaine Mundle excited by what he’s seen from Habib Diarra

It has been a couple of weeks since Senegal international Diarra joined Sunderland, and on the weekend, he made his debut, albeit in a pre-season friendly against local side South Shields. A 4-0 Sunderland win.

Diarra notched an assist for former Tottenham winger Romaine Mundle during the game, and Mundle was speaking to Sunderland’s media after the game. He was quizzed about Sunderland’s record signing.

He said Diarra’s quality is clear and easy to see: “Habib set me up, and you can see straight away the kind of quality he’s got. “He’s sharp, he sees things early, and he’s going to be a great addition to the squad.”

Leeds and Sunderland continue to meet at the negotiating table

It is not just Diarra, Sadiki and Mandava who have been linked with both clubs. Lyon goalkeeper Lucas Perri is a target for both, while Leeds and Sunderland have both held talks for Nantes’ Matthis Abline.

Sunderland also want Jeremie Boga after it was claimed Leeds made a bid for the former Chelsea ace and even this week, the two clubs are being linked with the same players. Senne Lammens is on both radars.

Leeds’ interest in Bologna defender Jhon Lucumi is likely to have cooled after signing Sebastiaan Bornauw and Jaka Bijol, but Sunderland could sign the Colombian giant. There will be more examples this summer.