Manchester United are actively scouting two midfield prospects as they continue their quest for a third addition to the middle of the park. The two names most frequently mentioned are Manu Kone, the 22‑year‑old French midfielder currently plying his trade at AS Roma, and Carlos Baleba, the 25‑year‑old Spaniard who has been a regular feature for Brighton & Hove Albion. Both players have attracted significant interest from the Red Devils, and each represents a slightly different profile that could complement the squad's existing core. Baleba has been on United's radar for some time, according to multiple reports from Sky Sports News.
Despite a dip in form during the previous campaign, the Spaniard remains a priority for manager Erik ten Hag and his backroom staff, led by former United midfielder Michael Carrick. The club is said to have revisited the possibility of making a move for the Brighton midfielder this summer, although no formal approach has been made to the Seagulls yet. Negotiations would likely centre on finding a middle ground on the player's valuation, as Brighton are believed to have set a relatively high price tag for the talented playmaker.
In contrast, Roma's Manu Kone is being considered as an alternative option that could be more financially manageable. The Italian side is not expected to demand as much as Brighton for Baleba, making Kone an attractive prospect if United are looking to balance their books while still strengthening the midfield. Kone impressed on the international stage at the recent World Cup, showcasing his ability to control tempo, distribute the ball efficiently, and make intelligent runs into the opposition half.
French sources have told Sky Sports News that, although a number of clubs across Europe have shown interest, United currently hold the lead in the race for his signature. Both players fit into United's broader recruitment strategy, which has already seen the arrival of two midfielders this window: Youri Tielemans, signed from Aston Villa, and Andrey Santos, who joined from Chelsea for a combined fee of roughly £85 million. These signings reflect the club's intention to add depth, versatility, and a blend of experience and youth to a midfield that already includes the likes of Bruno Fernandes, Casemiro, and Christian Eriksen. Beyond Kone and Baleba, United have also kept an eye on Bournemouth's Tyler Adams.
The American midfielder, who is entering the final two years of his contract with the Cherries, has attracted interest from several Premier League outfits. Like fellow Bournemouth target Alex Scott, Adams could be persuaded to leave if United decide to make a compelling offer. Scott, a promising English midfielder, has reportedly turned down a new contract from Bournemouth amid strong interest from Arsenal, Chelsea, and United.
Marco Rose's Bournemouth side is reluctant to lose him, having already rejected inquiries from the three Premier League giants, but the player's contract situation means he could be available for a reasonable fee. At present, United are not in a hurry to finalize any of these deals. The club's scouting department continues to compile a long list of potential midfield targets, weighing each option against the team's tactical needs and financial constraints. While the Red Devils have secured Tielemans and Santos, they remain open to adding another creative or defensive midfielder, depending on how the transfer market evolves over the coming weeks.
The pursuit of Kone and Baleba illustrates United's dual approach: securing a player who can immediately slot into the starting eleven (Baleba, if he regains his form) while also keeping an eye on a younger talent with a high ceiling (Kone). Both players bring distinct attributes. Baleba is known for his vision, passing range, and ability to unlock defenses with incisive through balls. Kone, on the other hand, combines technical skill with a strong work ethic, offering both defensive contribution and forward thrust.
If United were to sign either player, the impact on the squad could be significant. Baleba could provide an alternative to Fernandes in the advanced midfield role, allowing for rotation and tactical flexibility. Kone could be deployed as a deep‑lying playmaker or a box‑to‑box midfielder, complementing the defensive solidity of Casemiro and the creative spark of Eriksen.
Moreover, both players are still relatively young, meaning they could develop further under the guidance of Ten Hag and contribute to United's long‑term ambitions. In summary, Manchester United's transfer agenda remains active and multifaceted. While the club has already bolstered its midfield with Tielemans and Santos, the ongoing interest in Roma's Manu Kone and Brighton's Carlos Baleba demonstrates a continued desire to deepen the squad's quality and options. Whether United ultimately secures one of these targets—or perhaps both—will depend on negotiations over fees, contract terms, and the club's assessment of how each player fits into their evolving tactical blueprint.
The summer window is still open, and United fans can expect further developments as the Red Devils aim to assemble a midfield capable of competing for major honours in the upcoming season.