Man United are looking to strengthen in the January transfer window with a move for a France international midfielder on the cards.
If Ruben Amorim could have just one transfer in the January window the Manchester United boss would probably choose to reinforce his midfield.
Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes is the most experienced engine room partnership that the manager has at his disposal, however, it isn’t the type that is suitable for every game or to play week in, week out. Their know how and nous was vital against Liverpool, in most matches though, physicality and energy are every bit as important in terms of the qualities needed to play in a dynamic 3-4-3 system.
Man United target Manu Kone to strengthen midfield
One player who could be targeted for the role is Manu Kone, according to Graeme Bailey, the 24-year old France international is on the radar of several clubs but United have been keeping an eye on him for some time alongside Angelo Stiller. The Roma powerhouse ticks a lot of boxes in terms of what an Amorim midfielder looks like and, if anything, has a hint of a younger Casemiro about him.
Kobbie Mainoo has been linked with moves away from Old Trafford despite Amorim being a fan and keen to develop the England international. The looming World Cup might be an external factor influencing the 20-year old’s decision to ask to leave as he watches another United target in Elliott Anderson, jump above him in the international pecking order.
A partnership of Kone and Mainoo might not have the ability of Casemiro and Fernandes, but it would provide more protection for the defence in games when that is needed.
Are Man United’s going to bid for Manu Kone?
Speaking to United in Focus, Bailey has claimed that United are now looking to follow up the work done by the scouting department and make their move: “United are busy assessing and putting together their plans for 2026 and midfield is an area we know is somewhere they have major plans for. The club are actively working on this and are dismissing the notion of any shortlist ahead of next summer.
“Angelo Stiller and Manu Kone are two players that United are already well versed on, they like them both and are keeping close tabs on them. They are both huge talents and there are little doubts that they would be good fits. Interesting to note that Kone particularly is playing in a system very similar to one which Ruben Amorim deploys.
“One thing with these two players, neither of them are looking to move in January – they are both fully focused on making the World Cup finals next summer for their respective nations and neither would be willing to risk that with a move in January window. But keep an eye on these two, good chance both will be on the move in 2026.”
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