Manchester United starlet Sekou Kone is reportedly set to leave Old Trafford on loan for the remainder of the season
Michael Carrick, interim head coach of Manchester United
Michael Carrick, interim head coach of Manchester United(Image: Nigel French/Sportsphoto/Allstar via Getty Images)
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Sekou Kone is reportedly poised to join Lausanne on loan for the remainder of the season, marking a rare exception to an otherwise quiet January transfer window for Manchester United. Business has been subdued at Old Trafford this month, as Michael Carrick focuses on achieving success in the Premier League with his existing squad.
United are yet to confirm any incomings or outgoings in January, but that could change if recent reports surrounding Kone prove accurate. The 19-year-old is believed to be close to securing a loan switch to Lausanne for the rest of the campaign.
Meanwhile, the defensive midfielder has been working with the Swiss Super League side for several days whilst awaiting the final details of the transfer to be completed.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe's INEOS purchased the Swiss club in November 2017 and have subsequently incorporated it into a wider portfolio of European clubs, including OGC Nice and a stake in United.
Given United place considerable trust in their academy starlets, it is believed that Kone will head to Lausanne for the next phase of his development. It is anticipated that the Mali youth international should receive substantial playing time with Lausanne, particularly as one of their regular midfielders, Souleymane Ndiaye, has been sidelined for up to three months.
The club announced on their official website: "Souleymane Ndiaye had a very encouraging start to the season, enjoying the confidence of the coaching staff and notably making his first start in Skopje against Vardar during the UEFA Conference League qualifiers.
"After being sidelined by several injuries for several weeks, he made his return to competition at the beginning of 2026. He came on as a substitute against Servette FC, then against BSC Young Boys, a match in which he provided an assist, contributing to Lausanne's first victory at the Wankdorf Stadium in over 13 years.
"Having suffered from pain in both shoulders for several months, the player and the club have mutually agreed to opt for surgery in order to resolve these problems in the long term. FC Lausanne-Sport wishes Souleymane Ndiaye a speedy and full recovery."
United may be wise to be monitoring Kone's progress carefully, given they may look for a new addition in midfield this summer. Casemiro confirmed earlier this month that he'll depart the club when his contract runs out at the end of the campaign, bringing to a close an impressive four-year spell with the Reds.
Announcing his departure on Instagram, the Brazilian wrote: "Knowing when stages come to an end. Knowing when to say goodbye when you feel that you will be remembered and respected forever.
"Four months to give my all for this badge and for our goal. Eternal respect and affection for Manchester United and its wonderful fans. Forever Red Devil."
Sekou Kone
Sekou Kone is set to leave Manchester United on loan
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Despite being linked with a host of midfielders in recent times, including Carlos Baleba, Adam Wharton and Elliot Anderson among others, it seems that United will bide their time and make their move in the summer transfer window rather than rushing into any hasty deals.
However, with a wealth of talent emerging from the youth ranks - including Kone, Kobbie Mainoo and Toby Collyer - it may not be long before these academy stars get their chance to shine on the big stage.
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