Leeds United are being linked with a move for Manchester United star Amad Diallo but Sunderland boss Michael Beale says he is confident that his side would win the race – if he is allowed to go.
Diallo, 21, is fit again after suffering a knee injury during pre-season. He came on as a sub in the 2-1 loss to Nottingham Forest earlier this month – but the Ivory Coast man is on the periphery at Old Trafford.
His quality is undoubted, though. A fan favourite at Sunderland during 2022-23 in their race to the play-offs, Diallo had a hand in 18 goals during 42 games. Little surprise then, that interest in him is growing.
Leeds, Sunderland, Southampton and Middlesbrough all want to lure the attacker back to England’s second tier this month – but it is unclear if Manchester United are willing to allow their £37m man to go.
Beale was asked this week that if Manchester United did give the green light to rubber stamp a move for Diallo, if he felt Sunderland would be confident of a deal. He replied by saying his side would be on pole.
“We’ve made it really clear to them that we would be in there but they (Man United really value him as well,” Beale said, as per the Northern Echo. Asked if he would be confident: “Yes. Putting finances aside.
“That’s the big thing – I know he loved his time here, the fans loved him and he was well loved in the changing room. If it could happen, it would. They realise they have a very good player on their hands.”
Michael Beale confident Sunderland are on pole for Amad Diallo
Leeds’ interest in Diallo is nothing new, having tried to land the former Atalanta man back in the summer. The Manchester United man is a real weapon in the Championship and it is no surprise clubs are keen.
But Leeds should only move if a player goes. Reports on Thursday claim that Leeds man Willy Gnonto is expected to join West Ham – and that Manuel Benson is a target. Diallo should be considered, as well.
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