Journalist: Man United eyeing move to sign Sunderland star

Interest in emerging talent often begins quietly, a phone call here, a discreet enquiry there, before momentum builds. That is very much the case with Noah Sadiki , the Sunderland midfielder now firmly on the radar of Manchester United and Chelsea . As reported by GiveMeSport , via Sky Sports journalist Sacha Tavolieri, both Premier League giants have begun laying groundwork rather than launching any immediate transfer assault.

Sadiki’s rise has been one of the Championship’s more compelling stories this season. Signed from Anderlecht, he has adapted quickly to the English game, marrying technical assurance with the athleticism demanded by the division. It is a blend that rarely goes unnoticed for long.

There is a maturity to Sadiki’s game that belies his age. At just 20, he has become a central figure in Sunderland’s midfield, comfortable receiving under pressure and capable of driving play forward. Tavolieri noted that Manchester United “made the first move, contacting the player’s entourage at the start of the season to express their interest and gather information about his situation.”

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That early contact speaks less of urgency and more of due diligence. United’s recruitment strategy has shifted towards identifying profiles that can be developed over time, rather than quick fixes. Sadiki fits that brief neatly, a player whose ceiling appears high but whose pathway still requires careful shaping.

United’s approach remains measured. Tavolieri revealed that “Manchester United initiated early dialogue with Sadiki’s camp as part of their wider recruitment monitoring.” There have been no negotiations and no numbers discussed. The emphasis is on assessment, on understanding character, adaptability and long-term fit.

This reflects a broader recalibration at Old Trafford. United have been linked with several young midfielders in recent months, all viewed through the prism of athleticism and technical security. Sadiki’s Championship performances suggest strong development potential, yet Tavolieri did not specify whether United intend to make a formal offer. For now, their interest remains exploratory.

Chelsea’s involvement follows a familiar pattern. Tavolieri stated that the London club “reached out directly to Sunderland to enquire about the player’s asking price as they explore midfield opportunities for future windows.” It aligns with a recruitment model built around acquiring emerging talent before market value peaks.

As with United, there has been no bid and no suggestion of active talks. The enquiry represents an early-stage assessment rather than a concrete transfer push. Still, the fact that Chelsea contacted Sunderland directly signals that Sadiki’s stock is rising rapidly across elite recruitment departments.

Crucially, Tavolieri did not reveal Sunderland’s response or valuation. The club have not communicated publicly whether they would entertain offers in January or the summer. With Sadiki establishing himself as a key midfield presence, any sale would likely require a significant proposal.

As GiveMeSport’s reporting makes clear, nothing is advanced. No negotiations are underway and no terms have been discussed. Sadiki is simply a young midfielder now firmly on the radar of two of England’s biggest clubs. For Sunderland , that attention validates their development work. For Sadiki, it marks the beginning of a career-defining period of scrutiny.

From a supporter’s perspective, this report sparks a mix of excitement and scepticism. Excitement, because the Premier League’s biggest names circling a Championship midfielder confirms that Sadiki is doing something very right. When Manchester United and Chelsea are both making enquiries, it suggests elite potential rather than fleeting form.

There is also scepticism, shaped by recent history. Fans have seen too many young players become “names to watch” without ever completing the leap. United’s interest feels cautious, almost passive, and Chelsea’s enquiry fits a pattern of stockpiling talent rather than providing clear pathways.

For Sunderland supporters, there is quiet concern. The fear is not immediate departure but distraction. A young midfielder hitting form while agents field calls can unsettle dressing rooms. Yet there is also pride. Sunderland signing from Anderlecht, developing him, and attracting this level of attention reflects a club moving in the right direction.

For neutrals, Sadiki remains exactly what this report suggests, a player to monitor rather than a deal nearing completion. The next step depends on escalation. Until bids arrive, this feels like football’s modern reality, data gathering, monitoring, positioning. Still, when giants circle, something usually follows.