New Man Utd sensation Amad Diallo was ‘one step away’ from rival move

New Manchester United sensation Amad Diallo was ‘one step away’ from joining another Serie A club before he sealed his move to Old Trafford, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

The young winger is poised to make his first United start against West Ham in the Premier League on Sunday.

The 18-year-old made an incredible impact in midweek when he scored with a superb header against AC Milan.

And with Edinson Cavani, Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial all struggling with injuries, Diallo is set to start in attack against the Hammers.

His well-taken Europa League goal has only heightened expectation surrounding the player, who officially moved to Old Trafford in a £37million deal in January.

However, things could have been very different for Diallo, according to Romano.

He tweeted: “I still remember this day, October 5. Amad Diallo was one step away from joining Parma on loan, then Manchester United appeared and signed him on a permanent deal.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer hails "great moment" for Amad Diallo

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was happy to see Amad Diallo score his first goal for the club in their 1-1 draw with AC Milan in the Europa League.

“Amad was buzzing like a child: ‘Man Utd, I’m dreaming…’. His journey has only just started.”

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Parma left hanging over Diallo deal

Parma’s sporting director Alessandro Lucarelli spoke last year about his disappointment at missing out on Diallo.

“We worked according to the dictates of the new club. We tried to buy many young players who will be able to give us a hand,” Lucarelli told Sky Sports Italia.

“Parma had a proven squad, which is strengthened by many interesting young players. You must ask Atalanta about Amad, we had the agreement and then the negotiation with Manchester United started and they sold him.”

Fellow Ivorian Eric Bailly has already claimed some credit for Diallo’s quick transition.

He told Sky Sports: “I knew him before. I remember when manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer talked to me about the guy.

“Just keep him and everyone will enjoy him for his talent. I do everything for him… agent, big brother! It’s okay, I’m happy for him.”

READ MORE: Benfica boss admits difficulties over sealing deal for Man Utd star