Sunderland seem to be finally kickstarting their transfer business in the final days of the window.
Sunderland look set to seal their first January signing after agreeing a fee for Leeds United defender Leo Hjelde.
It is certainly a position that the Black Cats were desperate to bolster after their three left-backs picked up injuries, but the club are well aware that improving their attacking options is what could prove to be the difference between a mid-table finish and reaching the play-offs.
Sunderland are continuing their pursuit of a new striker as deadline day approaches, but the increasing interest in Jack Clarke could force them to look at another creative player.
The winger has so far been subject to interest from the Premier League, but it is Lazio who have made the first move and have seen their opening bid rejected.
Reports have now claimed the Italian giants could go back in with an improved offer – leaving fans very nervous about whether Clarke will stay on Wearside this week.
One player who could help ease the pain of Clarke’s potential exit is Amad Diallo.
Sunderland looked set to miss out on the ‘incredible’ Ivorian after reports stated that Manchester United would keep him at Old Trafford beyond January, however his failure to pick up any minutes during yesterday’s win over Newport County resulted in questions being asked.
In fact, Amad even went onto ‘like’ a Sunderland fan’s post on X telling him to ‘come somewhere you are truly appreciated’ – before swiftly unliking it.
What does Amad Diallo bring to Sunderland?
While Amad isn’t the goalscoring striker the Black Cats need, he adds so much creativity, attacking threat and ability in front of goal that we really do need.
The youngster worked wonders for Sunderland last season and made a real impact, especially when we were struggling without the injured Ross Stewart.
It has become so blatantly obvious how much Patrick Roberts needs his little sidekick too, given that the winger is yet to score in the Championship this term.
It seems like Sunderland are making one final push for Amad’s signature, and it really could be a huge game-changer for the club if they can bring him back for the next five months.
The Wearsiders have still been linked with a move for Bournemouth’s Kieffer Moore too, and to add the Welshman alongside Amad could completely transform this attack that has been really lacking in ideas.
To keep Jack Clarke too would be exceptional business, as the 23-year-old will be vital if we are to reach the play-offs once more. It would also likely be our only chance at keeping Clarke beyond the summer.