Fabrizio Romano has provided further information on Sunderland’s pursuit of Amad Diallo in January.
Sunderland had been linked with Amad Diallo since he returned to Manchester United from a hugely successful loan spell at the end of last season.
The Black Cats failed to land the Ivorian in summer after he picked up an injury, but they were hopeful they could bring him back in the new year.
Amad was inundated with offers during the January transfer window and at one point it was believed that he was eager to return to Wearside, however Fabrizio Romano quickly shut those rumours down and has now offered an update on where the youngster stood at Old Trafford.
Writing for The Daily Briefing, Romano said: “Amad Diallo – what a story for him at the weekend as he hit that late extra time winner to complete Manchester United’s comeback victory over Liverpool to progress to the FA Cup semi-finals.
“In January, Amad had possibilities to go out on loan, or to leave Man United on a permanent transfer. There were many possibilities for him in Italy in particular, with Serie A clubs interested, but also clubs in the Championship in England. He had the opportunity to go toSunderland again, but he always wanted to stay at Man United, and also Erik ten Hag told him at the end of January ‘stay here, be patient, and your opportunity will come’.
“Now Amad has scored this crucial and memorable goal, and there will be further discussions over his future in the next months to understand the long-term project for him at Old Trafford.”
Is this the start of Amad Diallo at Manchester United?
Amad did have to be very patient before being handed his chance for United, featuring for only 63 minutes since returning from injury in December.
The midfielder has certainly made an impression on Erik ten Hag now, though there is still the question as to whether this will mean regular game time for him.
While it was Amad that stole the headlines against Liverpool, Antony was also particularly impressive after netting his second goal of the campaign for the Red Devils.
Ten Hag has already proven that he favours the out-of-form Brazilian, and it wouldn’t surprise me if Amad still struggles to earn his spot in the Premier League.
Either way, Amad’s heroics in the FA Cup surely put an end to any slim chance of a return to the Stadium of Light now.
If anything it shows just how much of a miracle it was that we managed to snatch a player like that for a team that had only just been promoted from League One.
Undeniably one of our best ever loanees and a player that every Sunderland fan will wish plenty of success for – even if it is at Manchester United.