21-year-old ‘asked’ to join Sunderland in January despite Fabrizio Romano claims

According to a journalist, a “incredible” fan favorite requested to join Sunderland in January but was

denied his demand.

Following a challenging first half of the season that saw Sunderland fall short of the playoffs by two

points, the club was connected to several acquisitions as soon as the January transfer market opened.

While, like the past year or so, the Black Cats were said to be interested in a new first-choice striker, they

also showed interest in a number of left-backs, as well as a midfielder to compete with Pierre Ekwah and

Dan Neil.

However, one player that Sunderland fans were desperate to bring in was Amad Diallo.

The ‘incredible‘ Ivorian netted 14 goals whilst on loan at Wearside last season and had continued to be

linked with a return last summer, before suffering an injury that kept him out for the rest of the year.

The Black Cats were once again linked with Amad in January and the club were given a huge boost when

journalist Michael Graham claimed that the 21-year-old had asked Manchester United if he could

return to Sunderland on loan.

Fabrizio Romano, on the other hand, retaliated right once, stating that Amad was “happy” to be staying

at Old Trafford for this season and had not requested to go.

Despite deciding to remain with the Red Devils, the midfield player has only played 27 minutes since the

transfer window closed.