Why Man Utd are studying a new £75m signing move for Manu Kone

Manchester United’s summer transfer window has been dominated by rumors surrounding the central midfielder who could replace Casemiro.

Five weeks into the market, and it sounds like hundreds of players have been linked with a move to Old Trafford – but only two have struck deals with Michael Carrick’s men.

Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans have both signed for the Red Devils this summer – with the latest £35m deal arguably going down as one of the signings of the window.

However, Carrick and INEOS appear to be planning one final move to complete the midfield jigsaw ahead of 2026/27 – with one player emerging as their main target.

Why United see Kone as a third midfield signing

It is clear that United have made signing a diverse mix of midfielders a priority this summer, and such an area is of great concern to Carrick and his staff.

Santos and Tielemans are arguably the Red Devils’ two best attacking options, with both players achieving pass rates of over 85% and creating over 1.2 chances out of 90.

However, both are a little weak in possession – which has seen Roma star Manu Kone emerge as Carrick’s third midfielder signing this window.

The Frenchman has played off the ball in recent times in Serie A – after which he scored more goals and more possession than the two new signings.

He was also beaten more times than Santos and Tielemans in their respective stages, again highlighting his ability to disrupt the flow of opposition teams.

As a result, the 25-year-old star has since been linked with a £42m switch to Old Trafford, with talks ongoing between Carrick’s club and the player’s representatives.

However, despite the Roma star’s recent progress in recent weeks, other targets are still under consideration as the Red Devils look to complete their stadium overhaul.

How can United still sign an upgrade from Kone

United’s hunt for a midfielder this summer has extended across Europe, resulting in a number of names appearing on their transfer shortlist in recent months.

Real Madrid pair Aurelien Tchouameni and Eduardo Camavinga have both been linked with moves to Old Trafford this window – but both look set to stay at the Bernabeu.

The player who once played in the two recently signed a new contract with the Spanish giants, and he wants to stay and fight for his place under Jose Mourinho.

As a result, attention has turned to other targets in Manchester, which has seen the move of Carlos Baleba once again become an exception this summer.

Sky Sports have reported that INEOS are lining up a new move for the Brighton and Hove Albion star after trying to land the Cameroon international 12 months ago.

The 22-year-old already agreed personal terms on a deal to join the Red Devils last year and that stance does not appear to have changed, with the £75m fee for his signing already slashed.

United fans may currently be clamoring for a Kone deal with recent rumours, but a deal for Baleba would give Carrick another Premier League-proven option in his midfield.

The Brighton star would also cost £33m compared to the France international – but it could be money well spent, as their figures from last season showed Baleba’s dominance in key areas.

In his 31 appearances in England’s last senior campaign, the youngster managed to register 11.3 tackles for defense and 1.6 clearances per 90.

Both of the aforementioned stats rank Baleba in the top 15% of the Premier League’s best midfielders – while also edging out Kone in both defensive stats.

The Brighton midfielder also managed to double his tally in 90, while also achieving the highest duel success rate in 2025/26.

Such numbers show his excellent ability to stay in front of the back line and win his team back – something Carrick’s men desperately need after Casemiro’s departure.

Even in possession, the Cameroon international achieved a high passing rate and registered more successful dribbles in the 90 – which would make him the best finisher for the Red Devils.

Spending another £75m would be a huge investment for Carrick’s men this summer – especially after receiving £85m from Santos and Tielemans.

However, Baleba’s ability will add a new and needed dimension to the heart of the team – allowing the aforementioned duo to flourish in the attacking areas of the pitch.

While Kone would be a solid addition for United this window, a move for the Brighton star would see the prolific ball-winner added to the ranks.