Former Super Eagles midfielder Mutiu Adepoju has weighed in on the future of Super Eagles striker Umar Sadiq amidst rumours of a transfer.
Sadiq, who currently plays for La Liga newcomers Almeria, has been linked with moves to clubs in the Spanish top-flight with Villarreal said to hold real interest in the Nigerian at some point.
After helping Almeria secure promotion from the Segunda division last season, Sadiq and the club are open to parting ways if the right offer comes for the 25-year-old.
Umar Sadiq is doing the right things - Mutiu Adepoju
However, Adepoju stated that it would serve the Super Eagles striker to play at least one more season with Almeria before considering a transfer away.
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As reported by online news outlet theinfostride, the 51-year-old three-time World Cup veteran noted that it is due to the quality that Sadiq possesses that makes clubs seek his signature but he must be careful about his next move nonetheless.
Adepoju said: "When a player is having teams looking for him, that means such a player is doing very well and getting things right.
"However, he would need to stay one more year or so before going to Villarreal or any other team.”
Mutiu Adepoju kicks against Umar Sadiq transfer
The former Super Eagles midfielder explained that moving to a new club would pose a fresh battle for Sadiq as the Almeria striker would have to fight for a spot and prove himself worthy of selection again, things that he is already guaranteed of at Almeria.
However, Adepoju advised that whatever decision the Almeria forward takes, he should endeavour to remain playing top-flight football in the Spanish La Liga.
“Going to Villarreal now would mean that he would be going there to compete against already established players there. He will need to work extra hard to become noticed or to become a regular," Adepoju explained.
"On the contrary, in Almeria, they already know him having played a key role in the squad that got them promoted to La Liga. There, he is certain of getting regular playing time and that would save him some stress.
“All the same, I don’t have any problem with him on any of his choices as long as he stays in the Spanish league.”
Umar Sadiq bagged an incredible total of 19 goals and 12 assists in just 38 matches for Almeria during the 2021/22 season, helping his side finish first in the Spanish lower division.