Sunderland head coach Regis Le Bris has responded to speculation linking midfielder Noah Sadiki with a January move to Chelsea and Manchester United.
Sadiki moved to the Black Cats over the summer, joining from Belgian side Union SG in a deal worth up to £17.5m.
The 20-year-old has gone on to become a key man for Sunderland, starting all 15 league games for Le Bris’ side.
And his showings in a Sunderland shirt have attracted the interest of Premier League rivals Chelsea and United.
Chelsea and United interested in young midfielder
The Blues are often looking to land the brightest young talents in Europe, while United are keen to strengthen their midfield.
United have been linked with moves for Adam Wharton, Carlos Baleba and Elliot Anderson as they seek to revamp in a key area.
And Le Bris has stated that interest from the Premier League heavyweights is a reflection on how well Sadiki has fared in his opening months at the Stadium of Light.
Le Bris plays down exit talk
“It's positive for us. It doesn't mean Noah will leave,” Le Bris said.
“He's a good player, a strong player for Sunderland. It means we're doing well with young players and more experienced players as well. That's the market.”
Sadiki will be in the spotlight when Sunderland face Newcastle in Sunday’s Tyne-Wear Derby, in what is set to be his final game before the youngster jets off for the Africa Cup of Nations.
The Sunderland star is expected to be called upon to the DR Congo squad for AFCON, which kicks off later this month and runs until mid-January.
The Black Cats, meanwhile, are looking to overcome Newcastle in the first Premier League Tyne-Wear Derby at the Stadium of Light in 10 years when the pair renew rivalries on Sunday afternoon.
Sunderland claimed victory in that 2015 clash, easing to a 3-0 win, though they did lose to Newcastle at home in the FA Cup last January.
