Solskjaer ready to give Diallo his debut

Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer believes that new signing Amad Diallo could soon be pushing for a spot in the first team at Old Trafford.

The 18-year-old Ivory Coast winger has been with Atalanta since the start of the season despite agreeing a £37 million transfer to United at the end of the previous transfer window. However there was no guarantee that the club could secure a work permit and so delayed his arrival until January.

Diallo now has a work permit and has completed his move, which has allowed him to begin training with his new teammates at Carrington.

Diallo has made two appearances so far this season, and only played three times last season, so has very little experience of top flight football since his emergence. However he is regarded as one of the best young talents in European football.

When Solskjaer was asked by the press if his new player would be on the pitch in the next month or so, he said: “It might be quicker than that.

“I can’t see it being too long until he’s in the squad.

“He’s definitely settled down well. The players have taken to him, he’s a good character, polite, smiley boy who works really hard.

“He’s doing his sessions and getting used to us.

“There’s always a period of adjustment needed but he’s settling in well.

“He can handle the ball, he’s enjoyed training and he makes a difference in training, which is quite remarkable at his age.”

Apart from Diallo, United have so far been quiet in the winter transfer window. Jesse Lingard is subject of interest from Sheffield United, who want the 28-year-old forward on loan while they attempt to fight off relegation, though a host of other clubs are interested.

South American pair Sergio Romero and Marcos Rojo could both leave, but if the Argentine ‘keeper departed it would be almost certain that Dean Henderson would then stay at Old Trafford for the rest of the season, despite needing first team action to remain in Gareth Southgate’s plans for Euro 2020.