MUTV pundit raves about Man Utd signing Sekou Kone, pinpoints key figure to getting deal done

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Manchester United’s first incoming signing of transfer deadline day was a midfielder – and not necessarily the one fans expected.

Before the deal for Manuel Ugarte was confirmed, Manchester United announced the signing of midfielder wonderkid Sekou Kone.

Kone, 18, is a £1 million signing from Guidars FC, and he hopes to become the first Malian player to represent Manchester United.

The midfielder will initially go into the academy, but is expected to quickly rise up the ranks to the first team.

Sekou Kone to Manchester United

Sekou Kone‘s move to Manchester United was confirmed during Manchester United’s under-21s victory over Blackburn Rovers.

Former United academy talent Ben Thornley was asked about Manchester United’s move for Kone, and he spoke glowingly about the recruitment process.

Thornley pointed the credit towards new Manchester United sporting director Dan Ashworth for getting the deal over the line.

He told MUTV: “It’s absolutely brilliant. This is the remit Dan Ashworth brings with him.

“He has a plethora of knowledge about how to bring them into the academy. This is another one of a number we have signed in this transfer window and I’m sure there are more to come.

“They [players] know Manchester United has got a huge rich history of bringing players through, and still be able to develop them. Trust me – they are in the best place.”

Kone between two groups

Sekou Kone will initially join Manchester United’s academy, and joins a further six players who have been recruited this summer.

A trio of those are awaiting FA ratification, Chido Obi-Martin, Samuel Lusale and James Overy.

Kone will cut his teeth in the academy before being promoted to mix with United’s senior stars, potentially being fast-tracked into the first team.

United’s scouts deserve credit for this deal, while recruitment expert Christopher Vivell may also have had a hand in it.

The club saw off heavy competition for Kone’s services, and Ashworth’s nous and reputation for securing deals for talented youth prospects no doubt played some role too.