Sunderland sporting director Kristjaan Speakman believes that Manchester United whiz Amad Diallo will not play for the club this coming season.

The Black Cats were hoping to bring the attacking midfielder back to the Stadium of Light.

However, Speakman believes that United may be looking to hold onto Diallo or move him to a top-flight club on loan.

He said: “I'm so happy Amad sat in here at the end of the season with me and Tony [Mowbray] and had a vibrant smile on his face.

“He loved it. Naturally, that's what we want.

“Can Amad return to Sunderland? I don't think so. He should be playing in tier one, in England, La Liga, Bundesliga, wherever. That's the level of player he is.

“The staff here, the players and supporters have helped him get back on that journey and hopefully that will attract more players to want to come to Sunderland."