According to Prominent Italian Journalist Fabrizio Romano INEOS has secured the signing of a Manchester United player described as a formidable talent, drawing comparisons to Man United’s prime Target Carlos Baleba.

Following Michael Carrick’s appointment as interim manager, attention at Manchester United is turning to potential January signings to aid their pursuit of a Champions League spot.

However, there is debate over whether a major investment is wise during a period of managerial uncertainty. Historically, the club has often found more reliable success by promoting talent from its academy rather than making expensive, high-risk transfers in the market.

Recent reports on United’s midfield plans have been mixed. While funds are reportedly available for long-term targets, the club’s exit from the FA Cup and a relatively healthy squad have reduced the immediate pressure to buy.

The strategy appears focused on a summer overhaul, with players like Adam Wharton, Elliot Anderson, and Carlos Baleba on the radar. Baleba was a target last summer, but a move did not materialize. His subsequent dip in form at Brighton, possibly linked to the speculation, raises questions about his ability to handle the intense scrutiny at Old Trafford, especially for a potential nine-figure fee.

This context makes a strong case for exploring internal solutions for the remainder of the season. The midfield currently lacks athleticism, a gap that targets like Baleba were meant to fill. With Carrick now at the helm, he may look to the club’s own resources.

One such option is 19-year-old Sekou Kone, a midfielder signed by INEOS in 2024. Despite not making a competitive appearance under former manager Ruben Amorim, Kone was highly rated and considered a fifth-choice option at the start of the campaign.

Although a facial injury and the emergence of other academy players have limited his recent involvement, Carrick is expected to assess the Malian talent before deciding on a potential loan move to Swiss club Lausanne. For the interim period, promoting from within could prove a more prudent strategy than another costly gamble in the transfer market.