Manchester United’s midfield rebuild may not be complete despite the arrivals of Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans.
The two new signings give the squad added technical quality and Premier League experience following Casemiro’s departure and Manuel Ugarte’s injury.
The club continues to monitor the market for a more athletic midfielder capable of shielding the defence and progressing the ball under pressure.
Carlos Baleba, Manu Koné and Adam Wharton have emerged as targets, with cost and availability likely to shape the final decision.
Baleba is understood to be open to a move, with preliminary discussions reported last summer, though no formal bid has been made to his current club.
The Brighton midfielder appeals due to his power, mobility and top-flight experience, but his valuation presents a major obstacle.
United have enquired about Roma’s Manu Koné, who is valued at approximately €60 million.
Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton is also under consideration, though his expected fee makes a deal unlikely.
Santos provides ball-winning ability at both ends of the pitch, while Tielemans adds distribution, creativity and leadership.
What remains missing is a midfielder who can cover ground rapidly, absorb pressure and drive forward with direct carries.
Baleba fits that profile best, but committing a premium fee after an uneven campaign carries risk.
Koné offers comparable energy with experience across the Bundesliga, Serie A and international football at a more manageable price.
Wharton would improve deep build-up play, but his cost renders him the least feasible option.
Unless Brighton lower their demands, Koné appears to offer the strongest balance of quality, cost and tactical fit.
