Sunderland has reportedly expressed a strong desire to bring back Manchester United winger Amad Diallo on loan this month. The 21-year-old, who had a successful season-long loan with the Black Cats last season, showcased his talent by scoring an impressive 13 goals in 37 Championship appearances.
Although there were speculations linking Diallo with a move away from Manchester United during the summer, manager Erik ten Hag ultimately decided to retain him at the club.
Despite a knee injury limiting the 21-year-old Amad Diallo to just one brief Premier League appearance this season, there has been speculation about his future. According to reports from TEAMtalk, Leeds United and Middlesbrough have shown interest in securing Diallo on loan. However, the player himself has clarified his stance, stating that he would only consider a return to Sunderland if he were to play in the Championship.
In a message sent to a Sunderland fan group on social media, Diallo addressed the rumors, stating, “The rumours [linking me] with a loan to Boro are fake. If I had to come back on loan to the Championship, it would be at Sunderland and not anywhere else.” This suggests that Diallo has a preference for rejoining Sunderland in the Championship if a loan move materializes.
Man Utd tipped to ‘relax stance’ on Diallo
According to a report cited by GOAL, Manchester United has “full confidence in Diallo’s potential.” Initially, there was an expectation that the club would reject any approaches for the young winger during the winter transfer window. This suggests that Manchester United values Diallo highly and sees great potential in his development, leading them to resist any potential loan or transfer offers for him at this time.
Despite Manchester United’s initial reluctance to entertain offers for Amad Diallo, there are indications that their stance on the winger “could be relaxed ahead of February 1st.” Several potential suitors are reportedly prepared to make a move for Diallo.
This development aligns with Sunderland’s strong interest in bringing Diallo back to the Stadium of Light, especially as they aim to secure a spot in the playoffs. Sunderland’s manager, Michael Beale, has openly expressed his admiration for Diallo, stating, “We’ve made it really clear to them that we would be in [the race for Diallo] but Man Utd really value him as well.”
Beale emphasized that if Diallo were to go out on loan, Sunderland would be keen to have him back, highlighting the positive experience Diallo had during his previous loan spell with the club. While financial considerations play a role, Beale noted that Diallo enjoyed his time at Sunderland, had strong fan support, and was well-regarded in the changing room. Despite the uncertainties, Beale expressed confidence in Diallo’s abilities, stating, “Man Utd realise they have a very good football player on their hands.”