DR Congo international Noah Sadiki joins Sunderland

Photo Credit - Sunderland AFC

The Democratic Republic of the Congo international Noah Sadiki has signed a long-term contract with Sunderland AFC.

The newly-promoted Premier League team confirmed the recruitment of the versatile midfielder.

He joined for an undisclosed fee from Royale Union Saint-Gilloise, with whom he helped to win the 2024-25 Belgian championship. Sadiki has signed a five-year contract at the Stadium of Light and he is the team's third acquisition after Enzo Le Fée and Habib Diarra on Wearside.

The box-to-box player, boasting 140 senior appearances, has since explained that he was compelled to sign for Sunderland owing to their rich football heritage in England.

He explained: "This is a huge club, but what convinced me was speaking to the people. They spoke about the history, what they want to build, and their belief in the part that I can play. I will bring duels, forward runs, passion, and track back. Above all else, I want to win – and I carry this desire with me every time I step onto the field. This is my team now, and I’m really happy with my decision.”

The Brussels' born Sadiki joined Anderlecht aged six before working his way up to the professional ranks of RSCA.

The Premier League team's Sporting Director, Kristjaan Speakman, has since explained what they saw in the youngster before signing him.

“Noah’s enjoyed a great level of experience at a relatively young age, and alongside his drive to improve, this makes him an exciting addition to our squad. During his time at USG, he’s played in domestic and European competitions regularly, and the Premier League is a natural next step in his promising career," Speakman told Sunderland media.

"Our interest in acquiring his talents was long-standing, and we believe our culture and playing identity will enable him to thrive. He’s excited to be here, and we look forward to supporting him as he settles in Sunderland.”

The 20-year-old represented Belgium, the country of his birth, at the youth levels before switching to the DRC where he originally comes from.