By Bilal Ahmed
Manchester United is reportedly considering Manu Kone of Roma and Carlos Baleba from Brighton as options for a third midfield signing. The club has already secured two midfielders this summer, with Youri Tielemans joining from Aston Villa and Andrey Santos from Chelsea, for a combined fee of £85 million.
United has revisited a potential deal for Baleba, who is 22 years old, although no official club-to-club contact has been established yet. A compromise on the player’s valuation would be necessary for any transfer to proceed. Baleba’s form last season reportedly struggled, but he remains of interest to the club.
Midfield targets and alternatives
Kone, a France international, is seen as an alternative target. Sources in France suggest that despite interest from other European clubs, United is currently leading the pursuit for his signature. However, any immediate move for the 25-year-old is considered premature. Kone largely impressed at this summer’s World Cup, and Roma’s demands for him are not expected to be as high as Brighton’s for Baleba.
Another player on United’s midfield shortlist is Tyler Adams from Bournemouth. Adams is entering the final two years of his contract, similar to his teammate Alex Scott, who is also a target for United. Adams has attracted interest from several Premier League clubs.
United is not rushing to acquire either Baleba or Kone, as the club has a comprehensive list of midfield targets. They are continuing to evaluate the best options while also looking to reinforce other areas of the squad.
Alex Scott has reportedly turned down a new contract offer from Bournemouth. Discussions for a new deal began towards the end of last season, but Scott is believed to be unwilling to agree to new terms due to strong interest from Arsenal, Chelsea, and United. Bournemouth does not wish to sell the midfielder, who is also in the final two years of his contract, and has already rejected inquiries from these three Premier League clubs.
Scott is reportedly keen on a move to Stamford Bridge, with Chelsea showing the most concrete interest. This situation has led United to explore other options to complete their midfield overhaul.
Exploring other options
United has reportedly turned its attention to Sander Berge from Fulham as a potential alternative, seeking a player with a more defensive skill set. Berge is reportedly available for around £40 million, which is half the reported price tag for Scott. Berge is considered a proven player in the Premier League, having played for Sheffield United, Burnley, and now Fulham. His intelligence and defensive capabilities could fill a role similar to that of Nemanja Matic in his first season. Standing at 6’5, he could also address the physicality void left by Casemiro’s departure.
This potential acquisition of Berge could offer good value and allow United to allocate funds to other areas, such as bringing in Lewis Hall, a backup striker, or another center-back, especially given Lisandro Martinez’s recent injury. Berge is considered a shrewd market opportunity for the club, particularly if a deal for Kone does not progress.
The club’s recruitment strategy is increasingly influenced by statistical analysis, guided by director of data Mike Sansoni. Internal metrics have highlighted Adams’ exceptional performance among defensive specialists in the top flight. Adams, who moved to Bournemouth from Leeds United in 2023, has recorded physical exertion and ground coverage metrics that place him among elite Premier League performers in recent seasons. Despite his height, Adams has impressed scouts with his ability to win aerial duels and efficiently regain possession. He featured in 26 matches for Bournemouth last season, contributing two goals and two assists, helping the club secure Europa League football for next season.
Adams also had a successful individual campaign at the World Cup with the United States, where he played in four matches and reached the round of 16. His leadership and composure on the international stage have reinforced the belief at Carrington that he is prepared for the demands of playing for a major European club. United has been monitoring his progress for several years, including a period in January when a move was considered before he sustained a knee injury during a match at Old Trafford.
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Source: skysports.com
