Sunderland are looking to emulate Amad Diallo’s successful loan spell last season by raiding the Premier League before the end of the transfer window.
The Ivory Coast international joined the Black Cats on a season-long loan from Manchester United last summer, returning to Old Trafford a Sunderland hero after hitting 14 goals in 43 appearances.
After a slow start on Wearside, Amad came into his own after Christmas and took on the mantle following an injury to star striker Ross Stewart, eventually earning a nomination for the Championship Young Player of the Season.
It is thought that the Red Devils are keen on sending the 21-year-old out on another temporary deal this season, although this is thought to be to either another Premier League club or a club operating in one of Europe’s top leagues. However, the Sunderland Echo state that Tony Mowbray’s team are keeping one eye on the situation should the chance arrive to bring the winger back to the North East.
Amad isn’t the only Premier League youngster on Sunderland’s radar though, and their interest in Fulham striker Jay Stansfield is well known. It is thought that a loan move to the Championship beckons after a successful stint at League One Exeter City last season. Interest remains from Queens Park Rangers and Millwall, although Sunderland look to be the frontrunners.
The transfer window closes next week and the next few days look set to be busy at the Stadium of Light. Earlier today, it was reported that Sunderland have joined the race for Crystal Palace winger Jesurun Rak-Sakyi.
The 20-year-old spent last season on loan at Charlton Athletic, hitting 15 goals for the League One club. Palace boss Roy Hodgson has stated that he would be happy to keep the youngster at Selhurst Park this season and he came off the bench in the 1-0 defeat against Arsenal on Monday night.
The England under-20 international is wanted by a host of Championship clubs, including Leicester City, Hull City, Blackburn Rovers and Ipswich Town. Could a move to the second tier be on the cards?
Writer’s View
It would be a major shock if Jay Stansfield does not make the switch to the Stadium of Light over the course of the next week, although a fairytale return for Amad Diallo is unlikely.
Jesurun Rak-Sakyi is an exciting prospect and he looked a cut above at Charlton Atheltic last season. He is more than capable of shining in the Championship and it is no surprise to see a host of clubs chasing his signature. Sunderland is an attractive option for many Premier League clubs, who are well aware of how both Amad and Ellis Simms thrived during their time in the North East.
Tony Mowbray expects arrivals imminently and it is likely that the club are working away on a number of deals behind the scenes.
Head of Writing
