Manchester United are actively scouting two midfield prospects as they continue their quest for a third signing in that department. The first name on their radar is Manu Kone, a 22‑year‑old French international who impressed during the recent World Cup, while the second is Carlos Baleba, the 25‑year‑old Brighton midfielder who has been linked with the Red Devils for several months. Sky Sports News first reported United's long‑term interest in Baleba.
Despite a dip in form last season, the Brighton playmaker remains on Michael Carrick’s shortlist. Sources say the club has begun to revisit a possible summer move for the Spaniard, though no formal approach has yet been made to Brighton. Any agreement would have to bridge the gap between the two clubs over Baleba’s valuation, which is expected to be higher than the fee United might have to pay for Kone. Roma’s Manu Kone is viewed as a viable alternative.
The Italian side’s asking price is believed to be more modest than Brighton’s, making Kone an attractive option if United are looking to balance cost with quality. United have reportedly drafted a provisional deal structure for the Frenchman, who showed flashes of brilliance on the global stage this summer.
French insiders have told Sky Sports that while several European clubs are monitoring Kone, United currently hold the advantage in the race for his signature. The Red Devils are not rushing to complete either deal.
Their transfer strategy this window has been methodical, with a long list of midfield targets under consideration. In addition to Kone and Baleba, Bournemouth’s Tyler Adams remains on United’s wish list. Like fellow target Alex Scott, Adams is entering the final two years of his Bournemouth contract and has attracted interest from multiple Premier League sides. United’s recent midfield activity includes the arrivals of Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa and Andrey Santos from Chelsea, a combined outlay of roughly £85 million.
Those signings have bolstered the squad, but the club’s hierarchy believes additional depth is required to compete on all fronts. Baleba’s situation is nuanced. Brighton have made it clear they are reluctant to part with a player who, despite recent inconsistencies, still possesses significant upside.
The club’s valuation is expected to reflect both his potential and the market demand for a technically gifted midfielder capable of operating in a deep‑lying play‑maker role. United would need to present a compelling financial package and perhaps include performance‑related add‑ons to satisfy Brighton’s expectations. Kone, on the other hand, offers a different profile. The Roma midfielder combines physicality with a keen eye for a pass, and his World Cup performances demonstrated his ability to influence games at the highest level.
Roma’s asking price is rumored to be lower than Brighton’s, making Kone a cost‑effective alternative if United wish to secure a player with proven international experience without overextending their budget. Both players fit the tactical blueprint that Carrick is shaping for United.
The manager seeks a balanced midfield capable of controlling tempo, linking defence and attack, and providing defensive cover when needed. Baleba’s versatility across the midfield three and his experience in the Premier League could ease his adaptation, while Kone’s international pedigree and recent form suggest he could add a fresh dimension to United’s midfield rotation. In parallel, United continue to monitor other potential signings. Alex Scott, another Bournemouth midfielder, has reportedly turned down a new contract offer from the Cherries.
Bournemouth have made several attempts to retain him, but the player appears inclined to explore opportunities with clubs like Arsenal, Chelsea, and United. Marco Rose’s side are reluctant to lose Scott, especially as his contract enters its final two years, and they have already rebuffed inquiries from the Premier League trio. The transfer market remains fluid, and United’s approach reflects a blend of patience and ambition. While the club has already secured two midfielders this summer, the management recognizes that squad depth is essential for a campaign that includes domestic league, cup competitions, and European fixtures.
Consequently, they are weighing the merits of each target, the financial implications, and how each player would integrate into the existing squad dynamics. In summary, Manchester United are weighing two compelling midfield options: Carlos Baleba of Brighton, whose Premier League experience and technical skill make him a tempting prospect despite a potentially steep price tag, and Manu Kone of Roma, whose international exposure and lower transfer fee present a cost‑effective alternative. Both players align with the club’s strategic vision for a more robust midfield, but the final decision will hinge on negotiations, valuation agreements, and United’s broader recruitment priorities as the summer window progresses.