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Manchester United’s plan for talented midfield prodigy Sekou Kone has come to light ahead of the 2025/26 season.
Kone gradually rising at United
Kone joined United last summer from Mali outfit Guidars FC in a deal worth around £1m. United had been keeping close tabs on the player, having first taken notice of him in November 2023 at the Under-17 World Cup in Indonesia.
United were present at the tournament as Kone inspired Mali to beat Argentina and claim a third-place finish.
The Red Devils followed up their scouting mission by watching Kone at an Under-18 tournament in Morocco in April, where he was undoubtedly one of the best players in the competition.
Since his arrival, United have been gradually easing him into his new environment as he adapts to life in a new country and the demands of English football.
Last term, the 19-year-old made 14 appearances across all competitions for United’s youth teams. He contributed two goals and one assist in that period.
Kone was named in a few matchday squads by Ruben Amorim but he has yet to make his senior competitive debut for United. However, he was afforded minutes during the club’s post-season tour in Asia, where he performed exceptionally well and demonstrated his sky-high potential.
United’s plan for Kone
As the new campaign approaches, United are now weighing up their options when it comes to Kone as they look to facilitate his continued development.
According to The Athletic, United have yet to reach a definitive decision but they have a strategy that will help them arrive at the best possible outcome.
The newspaper states about Kone, “The 19-year-old midfielder is considered part of United’s ‘emerging talent’ group — young players signed with a view to quickly progressing towards the first team.”
“As with Leon, Kone’s level is currently being assessed before a decision is made on whether he is ready to contribute more often at first-team level.”
“A loan or another season spent predominantly with United’s under-21s are both still options.”
A previous report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that Kone could be loaned out to INEOS-owned FC Lausanne Sport. If this materialises, he will follow in the footsteps of summer signing Enzo Kana-Biyik, who will spend the 2025/26 term with the Swiss club.
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