Manchester United Academy Sekou Kone
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Manchester United have placed a greater emphasis on recruiting young talents since INEOS took control of football operations in 2024.
After years of criticism over poor recruitment, co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has already reshaped the club’s approach to player signings.
Gone are the days of spending huge transfer fees on players past their prime and handing out enormous contracts.
Ratcliffe was never convinced by the signing of Casemiro, as United paid a hefty fee for a player who was already beyond his peak.
While Casemiro played a key role in his first season, it was evident he wasn’t the same force that won multiple Champions League titles with Real Madrid.
Now, INEOS chiefs are prioritising youth signings in a bid to build a sustainable future for Manchester United.
In the past year alone, United have recruited several young stars, including Ayden Heaven, Chido Obi, and Leny Yoro.
Barcelona wanted Man Utd starlet Sekou Kone
One of the most exciting youngsters to arrive at Old Trafford in the last year is Sekou Kone.
The 19-year-old midfielder completed a £1 million transfer from Malian club Guidars FC on deadline day last summer.
United initially scouted Kone at the Under-17 World Cup in Indonesia in 2023, before moving to secure his signature.
Since arriving, he has represented both United’s U19s and U21s, while also being on the verge of making his first-team debut.
Amorim has named Kone in three matchday squads this season, including for Premier League clashes against Tottenham, Everton, and Nottingham Forest.
According to Spanish outlet Sport (via Sport Witness), Barcelona had serious interest in signing Kone before he ended up at United.
The report states that Barcelona sporting director Deco is now focusing on internal development due to the club’s financial struggles.
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Regarding their failed pursuit, the newspaper adds: “The problem is that some of the targets required small financial compensation and have already escaped months ago.”
Barcelona’s inability to strike a deal allowed United to complete the transfer on August 30, 2024.
Due to delays in the transfer process, Kone missed pre-season and had to wait until November to make his first start for United’s academy.
Unfortunately, he suffered an injury just 40 minutes into his debut for the U21s against Huddersfield, ruling him out for weeks.
Now back to full fitness, Kone is on the fringes of the first team but continues to earn valuable minutes with the U21s.
Last weekend, he scored a stunning left-footed volley against Leeds, showcasing his immense talent.
He also won the penalty for Sam Mather’s equaliser as the game ended 2-2.
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