Manchester United have been given four transfer green lights for targets worth a combined £255million, as Michael Carrick looks to strengthen his squad further this summer.
United's summer business so far
The Red Devils have already signed three first-team players, including midfield duo Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos. However, with four competitions to compete in this season, more additions are expected in the coming weeks.
According to reports, four players have shown interest in joining the club, with United said to be frontrunners for Bologna centre-back Jhon Lucumi.
Jhon Lucumi chase
Quotidiano Sportivo claims the Colombian defender only wants to join a 'big club', with United competing against Juventus, Nottingham Forest and Bournemouth for his signature. Lucumi, 28, has just 12 months left on his contract and is reportedly open to joining United, who have made their move for the World Cup star.
The Serie A side are requesting €25million (£21.4m) plus €3million (£2.6m) in add-ons, with Juventus and Forest's offers falling short of their valuation. Lucumi's arrival would bolster United's defensive depth, which was hampered last season by injuries to Lisandro Martinez and Matthijs de Ligt.
Midfield targets: Baleba, Scott, and Kone
Carrick has upgraded his midfield options this summer but could add more by chasing a deal for Carlos Baleba or Alex Scott. Brighton midfielder Baleba has been monitored by United for the last two summers, but a deal never materialised due to the Seagulls' £100m price tag on the 22-year-old.
The Cameroonian was keen on a move, but any chance of a deal took a hit after he suffered an ankle ligament injury. That makes Scott a more viable acquisition, with the Bournemouth midfielder reportedly open to a move to Old Trafford.
The 22-year-old is subject to intense interest across the English top-flight, with Chelsea and Liverpool keeping an eye on his situation. The England star impressed in Bournemouth's capture of European football last season and is valued at £70m, though his price could jump to £80m if a bidding war ensues.
United could instead opt for a more cost-effective deal in AS Roma midfielder Manu Kone. The Frenchman has reportedly given the all-clear over a move to Manchester, with reports in Italy suggesting United have already agreed personal terms with the 25-year-old. The Italian side are seeking around €60m (£51m) to part ways with Kone.
Evra backs Kone move
A move to United would be backed by former captain Patrice Evra, who praised his compatriot's talents. Evra told Stake: "I like Manu Kone's profile for the Premier League. He has energy, he carries the ball, he likes duels and he works for the team. All of those things matter in England. The Premier League is faster. You don't get time to breathe. So the important thing is adaptation."
"Don't judge him after five games. If he goes to Arsenal with a manager who knows how to use him, I think he can do well. He definitely has the tools. Then it is about consistency."
