Manchester United are reportedly keeping a close watch on two promising midfielders as they continue their quest for a third addition to the middle of the park. The first name on the list is Manu Kone, a 22‑year‑old French international who impressed with Roma and shone at the recent World Cup. The second is Carlos Baleba, the 25‑year‑old Brighton midfielder who has been linked with United for several months despite a dip in form last season. Sky Sports News first broke the story that United have a long‑term interest in Baleba.
Even though his performances for Brighton have been inconsistent, the Red Devils’ scouting department still regard him as a player with the technical ability and tactical awareness to fit Michael Carrick’s midfield blueprint. According to insiders, the club has begun to revisit a possible summer move for the Seagulls’ youngster, but no formal approach has been made to Brighton yet. Any agreement would also have to reconcile the two clubs on a transfer fee that both deem acceptable. In parallel, Roma’s Kone is being positioned as an alternative option.
The Italian side is expected to set a lower asking price than Brighton, which could make the Frenchman a more financially attractive target. United have reportedly run through a number of scenarios for a potential deal, weighing Kone’s age, his recent World Cup showing and his ability to play both as a deep‑lying playmaker and a more advanced midfielder.
French sources have told Sky Sports that, while several European clubs are monitoring Kone, United currently sit at the front of the race for his signature. It is important to note that any suggestion of an imminent transfer for either player would be premature. Both clubs – Roma and Brighton – remain in control of the negotiations, and United appear to be taking a measured approach, preferring to assess a broader shortlist before committing to a single name.
In addition to Kone and Baleba, Bournemouth’s Tyler Adams is also on United’s radar. Like his teammate Alex Scott, who is another potential recruit, Adams is entering the final two years of his contract with the Cherries and has attracted interest from several Premier League sides.
United’s midfield recruitment strategy this summer has already yielded two high‑profile signings. Youri Tielemans arrived from Aston Villa and Andrey Santos joined from Chelsea, together costing roughly £85 million. These arrivals have given manager Erik ten Hag a solid foundation, but the club’s hierarchy remains keen to add depth, versatility and competition for places.
The board is reportedly reviewing a long list of midfield targets, weighing factors such as age, resale value, playing style and how each candidate would complement the existing squad. The situation surrounding Alex Scott adds another layer of complexity. Sky Sports reported earlier in the week that the Bournemouth midfielder turned down a new contract offer from his current club. The Cherries have reportedly made several proposals since the end of the season, but Scott appears reluctant to sign a fresh deal while interest from Arsenal, Chelsea and United continues to mount.
Marco Rose’s Bournemouth side is keen to retain the talented midfielder, who has only two years left on his deal, and has already rebuffed inquiries from the Premier League trio. Nonetheless, United, along with the other English giants, remain among the frontrunners in the race for his signature.
While United’s transfer agenda is still evolving, the club is also looking beyond the midfield. The management is evaluating other areas of the squad that may need reinforcement, ensuring that any new signing aligns with the overall tactical plan for the upcoming season. Fans can expect further updates as the summer window progresses, with potential announcements on both domestic and international targets. In summary, Manchester United’s midfield scouting report currently highlights Manu Kone of Roma and Carlos Baleba of Brighton as two of the most seriously considered candidates for a third signing.
Both players bring distinct qualities: Kone offers youthful energy and recent World Cup experience, while Baleba provides Premier League exposure despite a recent dip in form. Alongside them, Tyler Adams and Alex Scott remain on the club’s extended watchlist.
United have already bolstered the midfield with Tielemans and Santos, but the pursuit of additional talent demonstrates a commitment to building a squad capable of competing on all fronts. The transfer market remains fluid, and while no official offers have been made, the Red Devils are expected to continue their diligent search for the right midfield additions as the window approaches its deadline.