Sadiq Umar Valencia return under consideration as the Spanish club plan January reinforcements and the Nigeria striker seeks regular football

Valencia Football Club are considering a renewed move for Nigeria striker Sadiq Umar ahead of the January transfer window, with the forward open to a return to Mestalla, according to reports in Spain.

Also read: Lookman brilliance lifts Nigeria past Tanzania at AFCON

With the winter window set to open next week, Valencia head coach Carlos Corberán is preparing to strengthen several areas of his squad and has identified Sadiq Umar as a priority target.

Spanish outlet Diario AS reported that the striker would welcome a return to the club, where he spent the second half of last season on loan.

Sadiq Umar joined Valencia on a short-term deal last year and played a key role in helping the club secure La Liga survival.

Although the agreement included an option to buy, Valencia opted not to activate it, before returning with fresh interest late in the summer transfer window.

That move collapsed after Real Sociedad president Jokin Aperribay rejected the proposed terms, leaving the Nigerian forward in San Sebastián.

The decision has resulted in a frustrating campaign for Sadiq Umar.

The 27-year-old has featured in seven matches across all competitions this season, making only two starts.

In La Liga, he has logged just 159 minutes, averaging 32 minutes per appearance, and is yet to score.

His only goal of the season has come in the Copa del Rey.

Underlying statistics underline his reduced role at Real Sociedad.

Sadiq Umar has recorded an expected goals figure of 0.18, attempted fewer than one shot per game, and has not registered a single shot on target in the league.

He has also created one big chance, won one penalty, and averaged fewer than 10 touches per appearance.

Despite being under contract until 2028, Diario AS reported that Real Sociedad would be open to facilitating a move in January due to his lack of impact and playing time.

The striker has repeatedly signalled his openness to a Valencia return.

Last summer, he was seen wearing a Valencia shirt while playing with friends in Nigeria, and he has since reacted positively when asked about his future with the club.

Valencia sporting director Ron Gourlay previously confirmed the club’s attempts to re-sign Sadiq Umar during the last transfer window.

Gourlay said Valencia were prepared to pursue either a loan or a permanent transfer but failed to reach agreement with all parties.

Sadiq Umar’s club struggles have also affected his international career.

He was omitted from Nigeria’s final squad for the Africa Cup of Nations, marking a second consecutive year without an appearance for the Super Eagles.

Once a regular for Nigeria, his reduced minutes and match sharpness influenced head coach Éric Chelle’s decision.

Also read: Lookman brilliance lifts Nigeria past Tanzania at AFCON

As the January window approaches, Sadiq Umar faces a decisive moment, with Valencia weighing whether to bring the striker back to familiar ground in a bid to revive both his club and international fortunes.