Not signing a dynamic midfielder has left some Manchester United fans worried, as they are concerned it may prove a costly transfer blunder.
After pulling the plug on the Carlos Baleba swoop due to its high cost, United should have pursued one of the other quality alternatives available on the market. At least that is what many fans think.
But they did not, and that has left fans wondering why.
Well, the Manchester Evening News may have the answer. They suggest United saw little value in making a midfield signing after missing out on their top target, given the reduced fixture load following their Carabao Cup exit.
Capable options available
With around 16 matches to play between now and the winter transfer window, the belief is that Ruben Amorim can manage with what he has.
United chiefs reportedly feel that Bruno Fernandes, Casemiro, Manuel Ugarte and Kobbie Mainoo offer enough depth in midfield for the time being.
Academy prospect tipped for breakthrough
Beyond that “obvious” reason, MEN point to one intriguing factor: Sekou Kone. They claim United may have shelved their anticipated midfield signing because of growing belief in the academy talent:
“There is also a belief that Sekou Kone could have a first-team impact before the end of the season. Kone did play a single minute during the United States tour, but staff believe he could eventually contribute.”
For those tracking Kone’s progress, that is promising news for the exciting summer 2024 signing.
When Kone joined, some dubbed him the next Yaya Toure thanks to his explosive energy and all-action style in central midfield.
Despite initial excitement over the 19-year-old, United opted for a cautious approach.
With no European experience, having signed from Guidars FC in his native Mali, the club felt that he would be better off starting in the academy and working his way up.
Kone has impressed with the United Under-21s
A year on, that decision looks justified. The Mali youth international has been a standout performer for United’s Under-21s.
Rotating between central midfield and central defence, he registered four goal contributions in 12 appearances, brilliant numbers that earned him a spot on United’s USA pre-season tour.
Though he did feature in the tour, it is clear he left an impression on the training pitch.
He was set to go out on loan, but given his brilliance, the club were not sure whether to let him leave or integrate him into the senior squad. Strangely, an injury he picked up just after the USA tour may have played a part in convincing United to keep him.
Ultimately, his continued availability at the club is probably why they believe this could be his breakthrough season, one that might reshape their transfer plans entirely.
INEOS are expected to revisit their interest in Baleba next year. However, if Kone emerges as the “dynamic midfielder” United need, they may well redirect those funds elsewhere as they continue to build a super team for Amorim.
Sekou Koné signing for Man United, posted on Instagram
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Daniel Onguko
Since Dan was introduced to Manchester United in 2008, he has lived and breathed the club. What started as being a fan evolved into writing about United, allowing him to feel part of their journey. Hopefully, his work might even help rekindle your love for the kings of Manchester.
