Man Utd news: Manu Kone agreement reached as player requests Old Trafford move

Manchester United’s summer rebuild has taken another step forward after reports emerged that midfielder Manu Kone has agreed personal terms to join Old Trafford, with the 23-year-old publicly requesting a move to the Premier League. The developments come as Michael Carrick’s side intensify preparations for the new season, with the club actively pursuing further reinforcements before the transfer window closes.

Kone inches closer to Old Trafford amid multi-club chase

According to Corriere dello Sport, Kone has finalised terms with United, though a fee remains unresolved. The Red Devils plan to submit an initial bid of around £42.7 million (€50m), with Roma yet to accept. Real Madrid withdrew after their €40m offer was rejected, while Chelsea and Saudi side Al-Ahli also remain in contention. Should a bidding war develop, Kone’s release clause could rise to £51.2 million (€60m).

The French international’s preference for Manchester United has been clear, with his representatives pushing for a move to Old Trafford. His arrival would bolster Carrick’s midfield options, particularly as United continue their pre-season tour, with PSG next on the agenda before matches against Leeds and AC Milan. The club has already welcomed Youri Tielemans, Karl Darlow, and Andrey Santos to pre-season training, while further additions remain a priority before the window tightens.

Brighton’s Baleba eyes dream switch as United eye midfield overhaul

Brighton’s Carlos Baleba has reignited his interest in joining United, with his representatives contacting the club to explore a potential move. The 22-year-old sees Old Trafford as his ideal destination and is keen to work under Carrick. Last summer’s £100m valuation from Brighton has since dropped to around £70m, making him a more realistic target this time around.

United’s pursuit of midfield upgrades reflects Carrick’s need to reshape the squad for domestic and European competition. The club has already welcomed Youri Tielemans, Karl Darlow, and Andrey Santos to pre-season training, while further additions remain a priority before the window tightens. Baleba’s representatives have made contact with United on multiple occasions, with the player’s desire to join Carrick’s project now a key factor in his decision-making.

Rashford’s future hangs in the balance after Barcelona setback

Marcus Rashford’s hopes of a permanent move to Barcelona collapsed this summer, leaving him facing an uncertain future at United. The forward, who has two years left on his contract, is expected to return to Old Trafford in the coming weeks after completing his commitments with England at the World Cup. However, his standing in the squad has diminished, with younger forwards now ahead of him in the pecking order.

Former England international Micky Gray has urged Rashford to release a detailed statement reaffirming his commitment to United if he wishes to remain. Gray suggested that even then, Rashford may only feature as a bit-part player, with competition from the likes of Benjamin Sesko, Amad Diallo, and Matheus Cunha. Rashford’s £325,000-a-week wages further complicate any potential exit, with United reportedly valuing him at £40m despite Barcelona’s £25m option.

United’s transfer activity extends beyond midfield targets. Arsenal’s reported interest in Vinicius Junior adds another layer to the Premier League’s summer narrative, while Real Madrid’s agreement with Yan Diomande highlights the fluidity of the market. Meanwhile, United’s midfield jigsaw has begun to take shape in pre-season, with Mount and Santos among those impressing under Carrick.

A squad in flux: Carrick’s balancing act

Carrick’s summer has been defined by targeted recruitment, with a clear focus on midfield reinforcement. The additions of Tielemans, Darlow, and Santos suggest a pragmatic approach, yet the club’s pursuit of Kone and Baleba indicates a willingness to invest further. The challenge now is to integrate new signings while managing the expectations of established players like Rashford.

United’s pre-season schedule provides a crucial opportunity to assess squad harmony, with PSG, Leeds, and AC Milan all on the horizon. The outcome of these matches, combined with the finalisation of transfer deals, will shape Carrick’s first competitive campaign. Whether Kone arrives or not, the window remains open for further moves—with Baleba and others still in the frame.

One thing is certain: Carrick’s early tenure at United is being defined by decisive action. The next fortnight will determine whether his vision for the squad aligns with the club’s ambitions—or if the pressure of the transfer window forces further recalibration.