The Black Cats have completed a deal to sign the 21-year-old midfielder
Habib Diarra
Habib Diarra has signed for Sunderland
Sunderland new boys Habib Diarra has pledged to give 'everything' to the red-and-white cause after completing his transfer from RC Strasbourg.
The 21-year-old has signed a five-year contract after a deal reported to be worth around £30m was agreed with the French side.
He becomes the second signing of Sunderland's new Premier League era, following on from Enzo Le Fee's move from Roma after his successful loan spell.
“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 Senegal international 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.”
Diarra was a key man in helping Strasbourg qualify for Europe last season, and sporting director Kristjaan Speakman is confident he will continue to shine in the English top flight.
Sunderland saw Jobe Bellingham leave for Borussia Dortmund last month, but the signing of Diarra at least goes some way to filling the space left by the England Under-21 star.
“Habib is an exciting talent, and we are delighted to welcome him to Sunderland," Speakman said.
"At 21, he already has more than 100 senior appearances on his resume, and he’s been a captain in one of Europe’s elite leagues.
Habib Diarra of Senegal scores against England
Habib Diarra of Senegal scores against England in June
"This underlines his undoubted quality and immense potential, and it reflects our progress and ambition that we have secured a player of his calibre.
"Like Sunderland, Habib is ready for the Premier League, and we look forward to taking this exciting step with him.”
While he played for France at Under-21 level, Diarra opted to pledge his allegiance to Senegal, and has so far made 11 appearances for his country, scoring against England in June's 3-1 friendly win.
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