An update has emerged on Sunderland and their interest in Amad Diallo in the summer transfer window…
What’s the talk?
Journalist Jonathan Shrager has claimed that the Black Cats are one of a number of clubs in talk with the attacker’s agent.
The Ivory Coast international has been given the green light to leave Old Trafford on loan and he could on his way to Wearside if they can win the race for his signature.
Shrager Tweeted: “As it stands today, Manchester United are looking to loan out Amad Diallo this season. His representative Michaël N’Cho is currently talking with various interested clubs, including Blackpool, Sunderland, Anderlecht, Besiktas and Sampdoria.”
Alex Neil’s own Riyad Mahrez
By securing a deal to sign the 20-year-old on loan this season, Black Cats boss Neil could land his own version of Manchester City winger Mahrez.
The former Leicester man is renowned for his left-footed wizardry out wide for Pep Guardiola’s side – becoming only the seventh player in Premier League history to score over 50 left-footed goals in 2021.
Should Sunderland sign Diallo?
Amad, meanwhile, is similar in style in the sense that he is a skilful right winger who likes to cut inside onto his stronger left foot.
England international Luke Shaw once compared the £29k-per-week talent to the Algerian international, saying:
“He’s a wonderful talent and already a wonderful player so I’m sure fans are looking forward to seeing him on the pitch.
“It was interesting because Harry (Maguire) said to me the other day that he reminds him of Mahrez when he was at Leicester. Really quick, skilful, agility, can turn really quick, got great skills and I would agree with Harry – he does remind me of Mahrez.”
The gem went on loan to Rangers in Scotland for the second half of last season and chipped in with three goals in four Premiership starts, playing ten matches in total, along with creating seven chances.
This spell came after he caught the eye whilst playing for Manchester United’s U21 side. He scored six goals and provided four assists in five outings, which shows that he has the potential to make a big impact in the final third if he can nail down consistency at senior level.
Therefore, he could end up being Neil’s own Championship version of Mahrez as he has the skills, the left foot, the scope to improve, and has shown that he has a knack for scoring goals.