United now eyeing move to sign 19-yo sensation after major U-turn, he will be their fastest player – report 

Manchester United ditched a 3-4-2-1 system with three centre-backs following the departure of Ruben Amorim at the turn of the year. This development initially shifted United’s focus from targeting more central defenders to full-backs, as Michael Carrick re-introduced the 4-2-3-1 system at Old Trafford. However, INEOS may be forced to address both areas, with the club’s recruitment team considering bringing in another defender. Manchester United eyeing Abubacarr Sedi Kinteh According to journalist Paddy Keogh, a move for a centre-back was not an option until April, as Manchester United felt comfortable with having Leny Yoro, Ayden Heaven, Lisandro Martinez, and Matthijs de Ligt at their disposal. However, injury worries over Martinez and De Ligt have changed United’s stance. The Argentina international has made just 10 starts this term, and the Dutchman last played for the Red Devils in November. He is not expected to feature again this campaign. The Premier League giants have extended Harry Maguire‘s contract after nearly letting him leave and are now looking to bulk up their options without making a considerable investment. 🚨 Man Utd are still closely watching Abubacarr Sedi Kinteh The 19yo Tromsø CB is a cheap high-upside option this summer amid injury concerns over Martínez & de Ligt. AC Milan have enquired, with Chelsea & Leipzig also interested. One to watch. (@PaddyKeoghAF) #MUFC pic.twitter.com/ChisObZqKU — Attacking Football (@AttackingFooty) May 5, 2026 It is claimed United are closely watching Tromsø prodigy Abubacarr Sedi Kinteh, who “could be a cheap high-upside” defensive addition this summer. The 19-year-old Gambian is thought to be valued at £4.3m and is also being chased by Chelsea, AC Milan and RB Leipzig after impressing with his consistent performances in Norway. Abubacarr Sedi Kinteh is frighteningly quick The 6’1″ tall defender is a unicorn profile of sorts, boasting a massive frame and lightning pace, having clocked a top speed of over 37 km/h this season. At United, Bryan Mbeumo is currently the fastest player with an electric top speed of 36.4km/h. The figure also makes Sedi Kinteh as quick as Tottenham Hotspur’s “speed machine” Micky van de Ven. Interestingly, Keogh adds that United are also extensively monitoring Van de Ven, Toulouse star Charlie Cresswell, SC Braga’s Bright Arrey-Mbi, and Sporting CP sensation Ousmane Diomande. Sedi Kinteh is not the most exciting name on the list, but his price tag and profile certainly make him a very appealing target. Featured image Carl Recine via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Vishal Singh Vishal has worked in the football media industry for over six years, planning, writing, and editing content for several major outlets, including North Star Network. Vishal has a bachelor’s degree in English Literature from Delhi University. Currently a writer at The Peoples Person, he covers Manchester United — a club he has been religiously following and supporting since 2012. Vishal also manages a leading MUFC fan page, The Red Devils, on Facebook with over a million likes. Big fan of ball-playing centre-backs and Harry Maguire’s knee-slide celebration!