Sunderland haven’t been able to fully let go of Amad Diallo since his scintillating loan spell on Wearside came to an end last summer.
The Manchester United winger joined the Black Cats for the 2022/2023 campaign as he looked to build on his experience in a first-team squad, with there being little chance of him cementing a spot at Old Trafford.
Throughout his time at the Stadium of Light, Amad scored 14 goals – one of which came in the play-off semi-finals – and contributed four assists as Sunderland claimed a sixth-placed finish upon their return to the Championship.
He then returned to United and on their pre-season tour, sustained a long-term knee injury that kept him ruled out of action for the first half of the 2023/2024 term. The 21-year-old made his comeback with an off-the-bench cameo during the Reds’ 2-1 loss to Nottingham Forest on December 30, replacing Antony in the second half to try and inspire a spirited showing.
Amad’s future has been somewhat up in the air since making his recovery and speculation has seen him linked with Sunderland again, as well as Michael Carrick’s Middlesbrough, who sent a loan offer United’s way this week. However, reports have clarified that the Ivorian will be staying in Manchester to see out the season under Erik ten Hag.
Black Cats boss confirms Amad interest
Michael Beale addressed Sunderland’s interest recently, saying (via the Sunderland Echo): “We’ve made it really clear to them that we would be in there but Man Utd really value him as well. He could have an interesting second half of the season in-house but if he was to go out on loan, I can assure you, they are well aware we would want him to come back here.
“Putting finances aside – because that’s the big thing isn’t it – I know he loved his time here, the fans loved him and he was well loved in the changing room. When I came here, it was something that if it could happen, it would happen but I think Man Utd realise they have a very good football player on their hands.”
