Rio Ferdinand believes Manchester United should loan out Amad Diallo again

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Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand doesn’t feel Amad Diallo is ready for the first team and instead should be sent out on loan.

The Ivory Coast international returned to Carrington this summer after spending the second half of last season on loan at Europa League finalists Rangers.

The former Atalanta youngster, who was signed by the Red Devils in a deal which could reach £37.2m, is part of Erik ten Hag’s 31-man squad that has touched down in Bangkok for the first part of the club’s pre-season tour.

But while United’s options in the right-wing department may be sparse given Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho, Anthony Martial and Anthony Elanga’s preference to cut inside off the left touchline, the 19-year-old is United’s only left footer in the attacking department.

Mason Greenwood remains unavailable for selection and Juan Mata left the club as a free agent following the expiry of his contract last month.

Ten Hag wants to reunite with Brazil international Antony this summer, but United’s reported £51m bid is £20m below Ajax’s valuation for the former Sau Paulo star.

Rio Ferdinand believes Manchester United should loan out Amad

Speaking on his Vibe with FIVE channel, when asked whether Amad could be United’s solution on the right-hand side, Ferdinand said: “No. Unfortunately he’s just not ready.

“He’s gone to Rangers and couldn’t really get into and effect the team there which tells you he isn’t near getting into the Manchester United team.

“Is he the right player for the right wing? He hasn’t got that explosive pace that they’re maybe looking for, he’s more of a player with a bit more guile that likes coming looking for the ball and looking to create instead of running in-behind.

“It’s a bit too early for someone like him to be expected to come in and take that mantle on.”

United’s former centre-back expects the 19-year-old to be loaned out again this season to continue his development and gain further crucial first team minutes at senior level.

Rio added: “I don’t think he’s near enough to the first team squad, I think if he went to Rangers and smashed it there, he may of had a chance.

“But I think he’s someone they will look to loan out.”

Amad’s only appearance for the Manchester United first team last season came in the Champions League group stage dead rubber against Young Boys.

Following his loan move to Ibrox, the four-time Ivory Coast international got his move up north off to the perfect start with a goal on his debut.

But after being hooked at half-time in the Old Firm humbling against Celtic, Amad only made two further starts in the Scottish Premiership.

He did start the Scottish Cup final victory against Hearts but didn’t play one minute of Giovanni van Bronckhorst side’s run to the Europa League final.

Getting Amad’s loan destination right will be crucial in allowing the young African to leave this summer. Tyrell Malacia’s former side Feyenoord were interested in signing Amad last summer before he got injured.

With the Rotterdam giants also losing Luis Sinisterra, who has joined Leeds United, this summer, the Eredivisie side’s interest in Amad could resurface.

Rio Ferdinand believes Manchester United should loan out Amad Diallo and at this stage that looks the most likely prospect for the club’s number 16 whether we sign Antony or not.