Report: Man United considering moves for two midfielders

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20 July 2026

Manchester United’s summer business in midfield may still have further to run, even after the arrivals of Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans. As first reported by Caught Offside, United continue to assess the market for a profile they still appear to lack, a dynamic midfielder with the athleticism to shield the back line and the ability to progress possession under pressure.

The report states that “Manchester United’s major midfield rebuild may not be finished yet” and that the club are looking for “a more athletic midfielder capable of protecting the defence and carrying the ball through pressure.” That feels like a pretty clear brief. It also points towards a player who can complement, rather than duplicate, what is already in the squad.

There is fresh mention of Carlos Baleba,

Manu Koné

and Adam Wharton, with the piece adding that “Baleba and Koné feature on

Man United

list”. Baleba’s admiration from within the recruitment chain is not especially new, and there is a suggestion that “The Brighton midfielder would be keen to move to Old Trafford.” Even so, Brighton’s stance remains a major factor, with the article stressing that “Brighton’s valuation is a significant complication.”

Photo IMAGO

Koné, meanwhile, looks increasingly relevant. The report notes that United “have made an enquiry for

Roma

midfielder

, who could cost around €60 million.” In a market where Premier League-proven talent often carries a premium, that fee may yet be viewed internally as more workable than alternatives.

The logic around Koné is straightforward. “What United still lack is a midfielder who can cover ground quickly, resist pressure and move the team forward through direct carries.” That description arguably aligns closely with the Frenchman’s game. The same report concludes that “Koné appears to provide the best balance between quality, affordability and tactical suitability.”

Baleba may have the higher ceiling physically, while Wharton remains a highly rated distributor from deep, but the latter “would demand a huge fee.” On that basis, this increasingly feels like a decision between ambition and practicality. United have already added technique and experience. Their next move, if there is one, may be about profile, value and tactical fit above all else.

From a

Manchester United

fan perspective, this report makes a lot of sense. The midfield has clearly been reshaped, but it still feels incomplete. Santos and Tielemans bring quality, but there is still a need for legs, recovery pace and someone who can drive through the centre of the pitch when matches become stretched. That is why the line about “a more athletic midfielder capable of protecting the defence and carrying the ball through pressure” stands out so much.

If the choice is between Baleba, Koné and Wharton, there is a strong argument that Koné is the smartest route. Baleba is exciting, no doubt, but if Brighton push the price too high then United have to be disciplined. Paying a premium for potential and power alone can quickly become a gamble. Wharton is a classy player too, though the suggestion that he “would demand a huge fee” probably puts him out of reach for this particular need.

Koné feels like the balanced option. He looks capable of doing the hard running, receiving under pressure and turning defence into attack quickly. United have too often looked slow and easy to play through in midfield. A player with energy, mobility and conviction on the ball could change that. If the club genuinely believe he offers “the best balance between quality, affordability and tactical suitability”, supporters would probably agree. This is the kind of signing that can make the whole midfield unit function better.

Source:

Caught Offside

Liverpool join Man Utd in race for Roma’s Manu Kone

The Football Faithful

Liverpool could beat Man United to Manu Koné as midfielder emerges as ideal fit

caughtoffside

Man United decide third midfield reinforcement after Santos & Tielemans signings

Manu Kone: Roma prepared to accept bid for United target

The Peoples Person

Manu Kone: What Man United think about Roma’s incredible midfielder

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