Leeds Looking to Sign Manchester United Star Amad Diallo
Manchester United star Amad Diallo is reportedly being targeted by Leeds United as they look to make an immediate return to the Premier League. Diallo joined United in 2020 from Atalanta in a £37million deal but has made just nine appearances for them since then. However, following a spectacular 2022/23 campaign on loan at Sunderland, the forward will be given the chance this summer to force his way into Erik ten Hag’s first-team.
Sunderland and Leeds Interested in Diallo
The 20-year-old scored 14 goals and made four assists to help the Black Cats unexpectedly reach the play-offs and in May he claimed he would be willing to return to the Stadium of Light next season to help them get promoted. But Sunderland aren’t the only Championship club he’s linked to, with The Mirror reporting that Leeds are interested in his services following their relegation from the top-flight. Though Diallo primarily plays as a right-winger or attacking midfielder, he is capable of playing across the forward line and the West Yorkshire side are on the hunt for a new left-winger.
Jack Harrison and Wilfried Gnonto Expected to Leave Elland Road
Jack Harrison and Wilfried Gnonto are expected to leave Elland Road this summer, with the latter attracting plenty of interest from within the Premier League. Crystal Palace, Brighton, West Ham and Everton are keeping tabs on the 19-year-old who impressed in his maiden campaign with Leeds, with scouts said to be watching him at the U21 Euros this summer. Gnonto, valued at around £30m by his club, starred in Italy’s 3-2 win over Switzerland on Sunday, scoring his country’s second goal of the game. Palace are especially keen on the winger as they target potential replacements for Wilfried Zaha who looks more and more likely to leave Selhurst Park upon the expiry of his contract.
Diallo’s Future Depends on Pre-Season Performance
This could of course all depend on whether or not Diallo does enough to impress Ten Hag during pre-season. The reports adds that the Dutchman could be content to loan the Ivory Coast international out again but would rather he go abroad or to another Premier League club rather than spend another year in the second tier. Ironically, United are set to kick-off their pre-season against Leeds on 12th July in Oslo, with their first game of 2023/24 campaign at home against Wolves on 14th August.
Conclusion
It remains to be seen if Leeds will make a move for Diallo this summer, but it is clear that they are looking for a new left-winger and Diallo could be the perfect fit. However, his future will ultimately depend on how he performs during pre-season and whether or not he can convince Ten Hag that he is ready for first-team action.