Manchester United head coach Erik ten Hag has confirmed that he views Amad Diallo as a part of the club's future following an excellent loan spell at Sunderland.

The 20-year-old has only made nine first-team appearances for the Red Devils since arriving from Atalanta BC in January 2021, and he spent the second half of last season on loan at Rangers.

Amad was involved in Man United's preparations for the current season but was allowed to join Sunderland on loan last August, and the Ivory Coast international has been in strong form for the Black Cats.

The forward has managed 13 goals and three assists in 37 Championship appearances, helping Tony Mowbray's side to finish sixth in the table and claim a playoff spot.

Sunderland will face Luton Town in the semi-finals of the playoffs ahead of a possible final against either Middlesbrough or Coventry City on May 27.

A recent report claimed that Amad is expected to be present with the Man United squad for the FA Cup final against Manchester City on June 3, with Ten Hag prepared to give the attacker a chance to impress during the next pre-season.

The Red Devils head coach has now confirmed that he views the Ivorian's future at Old Trafford.

"Yes, of course. We loan such players to let them develop and make progress. To bring them back, that is the aim of a loan," Ten Hag told reporters during Friday's press conference to preview the game with Wolverhampton Wanderers.

"We are really strong on them on the matter of the way we mentor them, and so we follow them and we have communication through all the season, especially Darren Fletcher. He invests a lot in such processes and the aim is to bring them back as a better player and with better experience."

Earlier this season, Amad told Inside United that he is in regular contact with the club's technical director Fletcher.

"I speak with Darren Fletcher and he sometimes sends me messages when I play well and score. He likes to congratulate me," said the youngster.

"In terms of the players, I regularly talk with Anthony Elanga, Bruno Fernandes and sometimes Alejandro Garnacho. I watch every United game – when Sunderland are not playing at the same time.

"I really liked the game with Barcelona. It was a big game and I supported United. It was a really good victory for United."

Amad has a contract with Man United until the summer of 2025, and he has managed one goal and one assist in his nine first-team appearances for his parent club. body check tags ::