Manchester United are reportedly keeping a close but cautious eye on promising midfield talent Manu Kone, who currently plays for AS Roma, according to United in Focus.
The Red Devils are looking for midfield reinforcements and could completely revamp their midfield next year.
Despite Casemiro’s impressive performances, the Brazilian midfielder is already in his 30s and his form and performances are expected to decline. United are working to replace him next year.
As for Manuel Ugarte, the midfielder has struggled to settle into the club and his performances have come under scrutiny at Old Trafford.
Even Ruben Amorim could leave next summer if he decides to make major changes to the squad.
Manchester United want to sign a new midfielder next year
This will force the club to consider their options on the market, with United interested in Roma connections, along with midfielders such as Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton, Brighton’s Carlos Baleva and Nottingham Forest’s Elliott Anderson.
Graham Bailey told United magazine’s Focus magazine:
“United are busy assessing and finalizing their plans for 2026. We know that midfield is an area where they have big plans. The club is actively working on this and has ruled out the idea of a shortlist for next summer.”
“Angelo Stiller and Manu Cone are two players that United are already very familiar with, they like both of them and are monitoring them closely. They are both great talents and there is little doubt that they are the right fit.”
“What’s interesting is that Kone in particular plays in a system that is very similar to the one that Ruben Amorim is deploying.
“One thing about these two players is that neither of them intends to move in January. They are both fully focused on getting to next summer’s World Cup finals with their respective countries, and neither is willing to risk that by moving in the January window.”
“But keep an eye on these two. Both are likely to be on the move in 2026.”
Manu Kone could be ideal for United
INEOS are reportedly impressed with Kone’s performances, with a new midfielder expected to join the club next year.
Kone is just as good on the ball as he is off it. United need strength and composure in the center of the park.
It has been reported that the French midfielder could cost the Red Devils a fee of £50m, which would be far more achievable than the fee previously quoted for Brighton’s Baleva in the summer.
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