Aston Villa have reportedly made a late approach to Manchester United for Amad Diallo.
According to 225 Foot, Aston Villa have submitted a concrete offer for the Ivory Coast winger with the transfer window nearing its end. It comes at an awkward time for Amad, who has also found himself behind Bryan Mbeumo in the battle for a starting place on the right.
That doesn’t necessarily mean United are ready to sell.
Amad still has a strong case at Manchester United
Amad became a regular under Michael Carrick after the manager arrived in January, making 33 appearances last season. He scored twice and gave four assists.
Carrick using Bryan Mbeumo on the right-wing has changed things. The former Brentford forward has quickly established himself on the right, leaving Amad with more competition for starts.
Amad is also currently injured, so this isn’t a straightforward case of a player who has fallen completely out of the picture. His absence is expected to be for several weeks, with United facing Everton, Manchester City and Fulham before Amad is expected to recover.
But there are reasons for Manchester United to think twice before accepting Villa’s approach. Amad still has a contract at Old Trafford until 2030, with the club holding an option for another year.
For Villa, that could be an opportunity. Amad can play across the forward line, but right wing is where he is most comfortable, and regular football could be attractive. If Mbuemo is able to cement his place at right-wing, Amad may have a tough time to compete for his place.
United, though, have little reason to rush into a deal. Carrick’s squad is already taking shape, and weakening it at the very end of the window would need a very good reason.
