Manchester United's summer recruitment drive is far from over as they look to bolster the squad ahead of a demanding campaign. Under Michael Carrick, the Red Devils have already secured key signatures - including goalkeeper Karl Darlow and midfield duo Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos.
Defensive Reinforcements
Front and centre on their defensive wishlist is said to Bologna centre-back Jhon Lucumi. United are currently positioned as the frontrunners to win the race for the 28-year-old before the window shuts. According to Quotidiano Sportivo, the Colombian defender is said to only want to join a 'big club', with United battling for his signature against Juventus, Nottingham Forest and Bournemouth.
Lucumi has just 12 months remaining on his deal and is reportedly willing to move to United, who have already made their approach for the World Cup star, it has been claimed. The report also suggests the Serie A outfit are demanding €25million (£21.4m) plus €3million (£2.6m) in add-ons for his signature, with Juventus and Forest's proposals falling below their asking price.
Midfield Options
Lucumi's arrival would reinforce United's defensive options, which were severely weakened last season by injuries to Lisandro Martinez and Matthijs de Ligt. Carrick has successfully refreshed his midfield choices this summer, but could seek to further bolster his options in the engine room by pursuing a deal for either Carlos Baleba or Alex Scott.
The Brighton midfielder has been closely tracked by United over the past two summers, but a deal had never come to fruition due to the Seagulls placing a £100m price tag on the 22-year-old. The Cameroonian was reportedly eager for a transfer, but any prospect of a deal being struck this summer was dealt a blow after he suffered an ankle ligament injury. This likely makes Scott a more attractive proposition, with a potential switch certainly aided by the Cherries midfielder reportedly being receptive to a move to Old Trafford.
The 22-year-old is attracting fierce interest from across the Premier League, with Chelsea and Liverpool said to be monitoring his situation closely. The future England star shone brightly as Bournemouth secured European football last season and is believed to be valued at £70m by the club. However, that figure could rise to £80m should a bidding war break out.
Alternative Targets
Landing Scott therefore might not be straightforward either, which could lead United to pursue a more financially prudent deal in AS Roma midfielder Manu Kone instead. The Frenchman has reportedly given the green light to a potential switch to Manchester, with reports emerging from Italy suggesting that United have already reached an agreement on personal terms with the 25-year-old. The Italian club are said to be demanding approximately €60m (£51m) should they sanction Kone's departure.
A transfer to United would certainly have the backing of former captain Patrice Evra, who spoke glowingly about his fellow countryman's abilities. The ex-France international 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."
