Sunderland have received a potential transfer boost, with Fabrizio Romano claiming that Amad Diallo would prefer a return to the Stadium of Light should Manchester United decide to loan the winger out for another season.
The 20-year-old winger was a huge hit on Wearside last season, scoring 13 times in 37 Championship appearances as the Black Cats reached the play-offs in their first season back in England’s second tier.
His form saw him nominated for the Championship’s Young Player of the Year award – which was eventually won by Bristol City’s Alex Scott – although he did pick up Sunderland’s version of the award in April.
The Ivory Coast international is likely to embark on Manchester United’s pre-season tour this summer as manager Erik ten Hag takes the opportunity to cast his eye over the 2022 Golden Boy nominee, although there was speculation last month that the Dutchman is keen to build on last season’s momentum by sending him out for another temporary spell, this time in Europe.
Amad’s stock is high and he has also attracted the attention of a host of Premier League clubs, with The Northern Echo claiming earlier this month that West Ham United, Everton and Burnley were all keen on acquiring his services next season.
What’s been said?
According to Fabrizio Romano, the former Atalanta youth star would prefer to return to Sunderland next season should he fail to nail down a first team spot at Old Trafford.
Amad Diallo’s future is still open. Man United will make final decision on Amad in the next weeks, he hopes for 1st team chance but it’s up to ten Hag. 🔴 #MUFC
Understand in case Manchester United decide to loan Amad out, the player’s preference would be Sunderland again. #SAFC pic.twitter.com/qcVN6zGIOh
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 23, 2023
The renowned journalist states that Amad is still eager to become a major part of Manchester United’s plans, although a final decision will be made over the coming weeks
Is a return to Sunderland likely?
The Red Devils have made the most of interest from the EFL over the past 12 months, utilising all three divisions below the Premier League. Besides Diallo, Hannibal Mejbri and Alvaro Fernandez enjoyed stellar campaigns in the Championship at Birmingham City and Preston North End respectively, whilst Charlie McNeill received plenty of positive reviews during his brief stint with League Two side Newport County.
In League One, Shola Shoretire made the short move over to Bolton Wanderers and Charlie Savage was unable to prevent Forest Green’s drop to the fourth tier. Despite struggling, their experience was a vital one and United could opt to use the EFL as a destination for their youngsters over the coming season.
In Amad’s case, should the 20-time English champions decide another loan spell is the best move at this stage of his career, Sunderland is a viable option, particularly with manager Tony Mowbray likely to remain at the helm. The pair struck up an excellent relationship, with the 59-year-old singling the youngster out for praise on several occasions last season.
Writer’s View
There is no doubt that Amad Diallo was one of the stars of the Championship last season and he is a player who looks destined for big things. Few Sunderland fans would begrudge him a bigger move, but he became a hero at the Stadium of Light and would be welcomed back with open arms.
Although a decision is yet to be made, another loan does look likely. Erik ten Hag would surely prefer a step up to see how he copes with the physicality of either the Premier League or a major European league, although the player’s wishes will be taken into account and an additional season at Sunderland could materialise should he actively push for it.
Be the first to comment