Manchester United are set to conclude a deal to sign Mali wonderkid Sekou Kone.
The best transfer deals are the ones which appear to come from nowhere. And that’s what happened when Manchester United’s agreement to sign Sekou Kone was revealed.
Fabrizio Romano was the first to reveal the news, via X.
Sekou Kone fee
Sekou Kone is a midfielder who impressed at the under-17 World Cup last year, where his country reached the semi-finals.
Kone, 18, will initially go into Manchester United’s under-21 side as he settles in, and United will continue to map out his development.
According to German journalist Christopher Michel, who had reported interest from English clubs, including the Red Devils in early July, Manchester United will finalise Kone’s deal early next week.
He reports Kone will undergo a medical and sign his contract, all the necessary steps to complete the move.
United will pay a fee of £1.25 million for Malian club Guidars FC, while there will also be appearance bonuses too.
- READ MORE: Manchester United confirmed signings, transfers in, out, loan exits, releases for 2024/25
Sekou Kone adds to midfield depth
Manchester United have just wished farewell to one young midfielder, Maxi Oyedele. Kone takes his place in the under-21 side.
United’s midfield is currently the big area in the team which needs the most work. Scott McTominay, Casemiro, and Christian Eriksen all have uncertain futures. Even if they stay for another 12 months, they could each be gone this time next year.
Hannibal Mejbri is also expected to be sold, and while United want to sign Manuel Ugarte, Sekou Kone is worth taking a gamble on.
For a fee of just £1.25 million, there is little to lose from buying early on a prodigious young talent. It’s what the club need to do more of, and have failed to do in the past.
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