Amad Diallo’s successful loan stint at Sunderland last season was greatly aided by his 13 goals and 3 assists in 37 Championship games.
With Diallo’s return to play, Manchester United may receive the much-needed spark after their recent dismal results. As an alternative to Diallo, Sunderland would want to sign third-tier players who have established themselves as goal threats, such as Peterborough United’s Ephron Mason-Clark.
Diallo, a former Atalanta player, has returned to training and was suggested to make the first-team squad for Bournemouth’s match against the Cherries. However, he missed out on the matchday squad, which suffered a 3-0 defeat. Diallo’s return to action is imminent, as the Red Devils’ poor performances, such as the 3-0 defeat to Andoni Iraola’s Cherries and the 1-0 loss to Newcastle United, suggest a need for a fresh spark. Diallo could provide that spark and complement the impressive performances of Kobbie Mainoo, who made his full Premier League debut in last month’s win over Everton.
The Black Cats could have to look for a substitute for Diallo.
Even though the fans of Mackems would adore seeing their old hero back on loan, Ten Hag’s plans might not allow for such a reunion. As demonstrated by Mainoo’s recent promotion to the first team, the former Ajax manager has chosen to give his young players greater playing time this season.
Facundo Pellistri, a 21-year-old wide player for Uruguay, has made seven Premier League games this season and has contributed one assist. His presence has been felt.
Young players at Old Trafford have a clear road into the United first squad, as seen by the recent additions of players like Pellistri and Mainoo. Diallo may be the next bright young talent to join this group.
In addition, the Red Devils would be less inclined to send Diallo back to the northeast in light of Tony Mowbray’s recent dismissal, with whom the Ivorian obviously collaborated well.
The Mackems would not want to hear this, especially in light of the transfer rumors surrounding the team’s best striker, Clarke, who is reportedly being watched by Brentford and Burnley in the top division, according to Football Insider.
In lieu of Diallo, who should the Black Cats try to sign?
Luke O’Nien, a defender with the Black Cats, is one of several players who have shown success in the transition from being a top-six team in League One to a play-off caliber Championship player.
Because of this, the Mackems would be foolish to pass up the opportunity to entice some of the best players in the third division away from their existing clubs.
Ephron Mason-Clark of Peterborough United, who has seven goals and four assists in League One this season, shows that he is a threat in the final third and might be a fantastic addition for the Black Cats.
Despite the Mackems’ summertime roster additions, one could argue that they did not sufficiently replace Diallo. As such, whoever succeeds Mowbray needs to bring in a goal-scoring winger, particularly if Clarke decides to go.
