Sunderland now look set to miss out on one of their long-term targets in January.
Sunderland are yet to make their first signing of the January window, but are no doubt working hard behind the scenes to bolster the squad.
Injuries to Dennis Cirkin and Niall Huggins has left the Black Cats chasing a new defender, while new attackers also remain a priority for Michael Beale‘s side.
While the club have mainly been looking to bring in proven goal-scorers this month, they have also been looking further back on the pitch to bring in a new attacking midfielder in Amad Diallo.
The Black Cats have been heavily linked with a move for Amad since he returned to Manchester United from an extraordinary loan spell on Wearside.
The Championship outfit tried their best to snap him up in the summer as he looked close to leaving Old Trafford once again, but their interest ended when he picked up a serious injury that kept him out until after Christmas.
Rumours of his exit have continued to circulate during the January window, while it was even claimed yesterday that it was now Middlesbrough who were leading the race for his signature.
However, many potential suitors will now feel let down after Manchester Evening News reported that the Red Devils are planning on keeping Amad beyond transfer deadline day.
Manchester United are struggling for options on the right-side of their attack, with Mason Greenwood joining Getafe on loan and Antony proving to be an extremely disappointing signing.
Meanwhile, Facundo Pellistri is now looking increasingly likely to move on loan, meaning Amad is likely to earn a much more regular place in their first team squad.
The Ivorian made his first appearance for the club in over two years as United were beaten by Nottingham Forest last month, but Amad was one of the few players who impressed.
The 21-year-old only featured for just over half an hour, but he completed 94% of his passes, made one key pass, had one shot on target and won 100% of his ground duels.
Can Amad Diallo succeed at Manchester United?
Missing out on Amad Diallo is truly heartbreaking for Sunderland fans, given that he was comfortably one of the best loanees we have seen at the Stadium of Light.
But I would much rather see him given a chance at Manchester United than return to the Championship with another club – especially Middlesbrough.
While Amad was at his best in the middle for us, there is no doubt that he can do a much better job on the right than Antony can. Though his potential success at Old Trafford will spell the end of any hope we have of him ever coming home.