Amad Diallo publicly responds to reports he wants to return to Sunderland on loan

Manchester United wonderkid Amad Diallo has responded to a report that claims he wants to return to Sunderland on loan next season.

The 20-year-old joined the Stadium of Light on a season-long loan in August, and initially struggled for form as he failed to score in any of his first eight appearances for the Championship club.

Black Cats boss Tony Mowbray described the youngster as 'supremely talented' but urged him to improve his end product - and the winger certainly took his manager's advice.

After scoring his maiden Sunderland goal in a 4-2 defeat to Burnley in October, Amad netted four times in his next six matches.

He ended the campaign with 13 goals in 37 Championship appearances, including a stunning opening goal in the 3-0 final day win over Preston North End that secured Sunderland a place in the play-offs.

Speaking after the game to Sky Sports, Amad suggested he would be interested in a return to the Stadium of Light if the Black Cats were to get promoted.

But that didn't happen, as Mowbray's young side lost 3-2 on aggregate to Luton to bring the curtain down on what had still been a superb campaign.

Amad back to Sunderland?

Speaking earlier this month, United boss Erik ten Hag told reporters that the Ivorian would return to Old Trafford and be given an opportunity in pre-season.

But The Sun's Alan Nixon has claimed that Amad would be open to a return to Sunderland if United decide to send him out on loan - if Mowbray remains in charge.

There has been speculation over the 59-year-old's future at the Stadium of Light despite the club's impressive season, but the Daily Mail reported last week that he is expected to remain as manager for the upcoming campaign.

Nixon's claims were carried by Instagram account @safc.till.i.die - and the post got a response from Amad himself.

The Ivorian seemingly verified the report by posting a handshake emoji, indicating that he would potentially be keen on going back to the North East if the opportunity was offered to him.

But The Sun have also previously claimed that a loan move to the Eredivisie could be an option - meaning Sunderland may have to do battle in order to bring back one of their key players from this season.