DONE DEAL: The former Barcelona wonderkid, who may become the next Amad Diallo, has officially been signed by Sunderland after defeating rival Middlesbrough and two other teams.

Sunderland must rival Middlesbrough for ex-Barcelona wonderkid signing, he could be next Amad Diallo

Sunderland should rival Middlesbrough for the signing of a former Barcelona wonderkid in the January transfer window.

It has been a solid season for Sunderland so far but the last few weeks have slightly changed the outlook on Regis Le Bris’ squad.

The Black Cats’ defeat to Sheffield United on Friday meant that they have not won in six games, with certain issues arising.

Especially in Romaine Mundle’s absence through injury, there has been a lack of goals from the wing positions.

Sunderland AFC News looks at one player who could solve this problem, but they will face plenty of competition.

• READ MORE: Sunderland fans were right all along about Amad Diallo as former loanee shines for Man Utd, Black Cats still miss him

Sunderland must rival Middlesbrough for Louie Barry

Aston Villa’s Louie Barry has been in exceptional form on loan at Stockport County this season, scoring 13 goals in 17 League One games.

The ex-Barcelona man has gone on loan to Swindon Town, MK Dons and Salford previously and never really lived up to expectations, but he’s been superb for the Hatters.

So, Villa have decided to recall the 21-year-old in January and send him to the Championship to give him a tougher test.

Birmingham World has reported that Middlesbrough are one of the teams interested in Barry’s services, while there have been no links to Sunderland.

But Le Bris’ side should definitely consider a move for the winger, even though they would probably rather have a left-footed option.

Barry likes to cut inside onto his stronger right foot, like Mundle and Tom Watson, but one of those could surely still perform on the opposite flank.

Louie Barry could have an Amad Diallo-like impact

Amad Diallo is one of Sunderland’s best-ever loans so it will be hard for any future deal to have a similar impact.

But Barry is clearly a very talented player, having been part of Barcelona’s youth setup, and has seemingly found his feet at senior level.

He will have his sights set on making Unai Emery’s squad next season and a successful Championship loan spell would go a long way to achieving that.

The Villa man would arrive at the Stadium of Light in fine form and, even if his goal production tails off, he would bring some excitement to the fans in the stands.