Final gambit launched to prevent Man Utd winger’s imminent arrival

Ole-Gunnar-Solskjaer-Manchester-United-

Atalanta are attempting to delay the January arrival of new Man Utd winger Amad Diallo despite Ole Gunnar Solskjaer recently stating he foresees no “obstacles”.

The 18-year-old signed on the dotted line in October with a view to making the switch in January once a work permit was attained.

Man Utd scouts had tracked the youngster dating back to 2016, and ultimately secured a deal for a fee potentially rising to £37m.

The Ivorian has rarely featured in the current campaign, though hopes are high his huge potential can be unlocked at Old Trafford.

A spell in the club’s Under-23s would appear likely initially, and Solskjaer recently spoke of his impending arrival after their victory over Aston Villa, stating: “We have had all the paperwork, I can’t see any obstacles. He’s coming.”

However, the Manchester Evening News now report that Atalanta are hopeful of retaining the player until season’s end via an immediate loan.

This is backed up by the Mirror, who cite Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasperini as saying: “There is an internal solution that could be very interesting, which is Amad Diallo.

Amad Diallo Traore TEAMtalk

“Clearly, Manchester United own him, but he could remain with us for a few more months.”

“I really like him, he’s only 18, and I’d like him to stay until June, but obviously it depends on his club.”

This request is likely to be denied according to the MEN, who note Man Utd ‘have no plans’ to greenlight the potential loan deal.

 

Allardyce rejects Man Utd transfer

Sam Allardyce TEAMtalk

Meanwhile, New West Brom boss Sam Allardyce has turned down the chance to sign wingers Duncan Watmore and Daniel James in the January transfer window.

That’s the view from the Daily Mail, who report that Allardyce, who most recently watched his side hammered 5-0 by Leeds, is looking to strengthen other areas.

The former England boss is understood to be admirers of both players, but instead he wants to strengthen West Brom’s spine. Allardyce is looking to recruit a centre-back, midfielder and striker to try help the Baggies survive.

James has found game-time difficult to come by in the current season. With Mason Greenwood’s continued development and Edinson Cavani’s arrival James has been on the periphery.

The 23-year-old has been involved in three of the last four Premier League matches and started in the 6-2 win over Leeds.

Read the full story here.