Middlesbrough have been dealt a blow in their pursuit to sign Manchester United’s Amad Diallo, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.
The 21-year-old had a successful campaign with Sunderland in the Championship last season and due to this stint, he has opted against a move back to the second tier this month.
Who is Amad Diallo?
Diallo burst onto the scene with Italian side Atalanta, before completing a €21 million move to Manchester United in January 2021 as well as completing a loan stint to SPFL side Rangers, where he netted three goals in 13 appearances.
In August 2022, Diallo joined Sunderland on loan and contributed to 18 goals in 42 matches for the Black Cats as they reached the playoff places. However, he’s featured just once for Manchester United this season which circulated rumours about his potential exit.
What’s been said?
Social media rumours began to make their rounds regarding Diallo’s potential loan exit with Leicester City, Sunderland and Middlesbrough all linked with moves for the winger.
However, Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that the winger has no plans to depart Old Trafford this month despite his lack of game time. He also confirmed that Diallo wants to respect Sunderland by turning down any advances from other Championship sides.
Battle for the playoffs
Middlesbrough suffered a difficult start to the campaign but have firmly got themselves back on track and are continuing to compete for the top six, following their playoff semi-final defeat against Coventry City.
Michael Carrick’s side are tenth in the Championship but sits one point outside of the top six. Middlesbrough host Rotherham United this weekend and have won two matches on the bounce including a huge win against Chelsea.
Writer’s View
Diallo ripped up the Championship last season and I am extremely shocked to see that no Premier League sides have made approaches to sign him on loan.
Middlesbrough need reinforcements and they will need to move away from Diallo quickly before they miss out on other targets.