Yes, the in-tankpump can fail without many symptoms. Most likely you'll just hear the main pump start to become louder (buzzing) when the fuel level in the tank gets below 1/2 to 1/3.

A clamp amp meter is a very useful tool. 9 A is certainly way too much (Haynes say 6.5 A), to me that sounds like it's stuck. I don't know if this is a typical failure mode.
The in-tank pump should draw about 1.5 A, you can get a clamp meter around its wiring if you lift the floor.
What happened on my previous 245 was that the pump inside the tank was OK, but drawing no current. It turned out there was a break in the wiring right where it enters the tank.

I actually went for a Bosch when I replaced my main pump several years ago. Aftermarket replacements are cheaper but could be quite noisy. The Bosch is just audible enough to here it pressurize the system for a second or so at ignition switch on.

Also check out Art's thoughts on the in-tank pump here if you're not already aware of it. He reckons Airtex is a decent replacement for the original.