Sunderland chief gives verdict on Manchester United winger Amad's future after loan spell

Sunderland Sporting Director Kristjaan Speakman has played down the Championship club's chances of re-signing Manchester United winger Amad in this summer's transfer window.

The 20-year-old spent the 2022/23 campaign on loan at the Stadium of Light, playing a central role in the Black Cats achieving an unexpected top-six finish. He scored 14 goals and grabbed four assists in 42 appearances, meaning he ended the season as the club's top goalscorer.

United manager Erik ten Hag, following the success of Amad's loan spell on Wearside, is set to run the rule over him in pre-season to see whether he has got what it takes to force his way into his plans ahead of next season. Failing that, it is highly likely that the Ivorian will be sent out on loan once again.

Many believe that Amad would benefit from a season on loan at a fellow Premier League club, offering United the chance to see if he is capable of delivering the goods at top-flight level. However, recent reports elsewhere have suggested that the versatile attacker would prefer to return to Sunderland if sent out on loan once again.

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Despite that, Sunderland chief Speakman believes that Amad is destined to play top-flight football in 2023/24, whether that be in England or abroad.

"I think he's one of a few players in a category of taking a bit of a risk off the back of us explaining what our story is and what's potentially achievable here," said Speakman, as quoted by the Sunderland Echo.

"It's a little bit easier because when we're doing these presentations to players now, we've got these really strong examples of success. Players want to know what you're telling them is the truth.

"Young players