Newly promoted English Premier League side Sunderland FC have entered direct negotiations with highly rated Nigerian youngster Ibrahim Hafiz Umar and his club, Stade Reims FC, over a possible transfer this summer, Footy-Africa sources have exclusively learned.
Sunderland have been monitoring the 19-year-old throughout the previous season at Reims in France’s Ligue 1, with the intention of securing his signature. He made his senior team debut last campaign, and his contract with the club runs until 2028.
The Black Cats intend to sign the player, agree on a deal in principle, and send him out on loan for six months before bringing him to the Stadium of Light in the January 2026 transfer window.
A source at his agency, Elite Project Group Limited, has exclusively confirmed the developments, indicating that Sunderland plan to table an offer to Reims in the region of €1.5 million. With Reims relegated to Ligue 2, an agreement appears highly likely.
“Sunderland made contact on Monday and inquired about the player’s (Hafiz Umar) contract situation. They want to sign him on a long-term six-year deal and send him out on a six-month loan. He has impressed their scouts, and they are ready to spend as much as €1.5 million to make it happen,” the source exclusively told Footy-Africa.
In his debut season (2024/25), Hafiz Umar—whose versatility allows him to operate in multiple roles across the attacking line—scored one goal and provided two assists in 14 appearances for the senior team. He also played nine games for Reims II, netting nine goals and adding one assist. Transfermarkt estimates the player’s current value at €500.000.
While Hafiz Umar has yet to feature for Nigeria’s senior national team, the Super Eagles, his trajectory suggests a promising future in national colours.
