Manchester United consider January move for Sevilla midfielder Youssouf Fofana

Manchester United are reportedly preparing to make an approach for Youssouf Fofana in January after the midfielder’s impressive start to life at Sevilla.

The 27-year-old Franco-Malian has quickly established himself in the club’s midfield since arriving in Spain, with his early La Liga performances attracting interest from several leading European clubs. Manchester United are understood to be among those keen to act before the summer transfer window.

According to VamosMiSevilla, the English club is considering making a move during the next winter transfer window. United’s hierarchy are said to have been impressed by Fofana’s influence, particularly his ability to provide greater strength and balance in midfield.

The Red Devils would reportedly be prepared to submit a substantial offer to AC Milan, who hold the player’s registration after paying 26 million euros to sign him. The prospect of an approach in January underlines United’s desire to reinforce an area of the squad they believe requires urgent attention.

However, any deal would be complicated by the player’s current contract arrangements.

Fofana is on loan at Sevilla until 30 June 2027, with no option for the Spanish club to buy him permanently. He remains under contract with AC Milan until 2028.

That means a move to Manchester in January could not happen without the agreement of all three parties. AC Milan would need to bring Fofana’s loan spell at Sevilla to an early end, a decision which could require the Italian club to pay significant compensation to the Andalusian side.

Sevilla face losing a key midfielder

Sevilla had expected to retain Fofana until the end of the 2026/27 season, but Manchester United’s interest has created uncertainty over those plans.

The extent of United’s financial commitment will determine whether Milan and Sevilla can be persuaded to resolve the contractual difficulties. The Premier League club will need to decide how far it is willing to go to secure the midfielder before the end of the season.

For now, Fofana remains a Sevilla player and is expected to be available for the club’s eighth La Liga match, against Levante. But United’s reported willingness to move in January suggests they do not intend to wait until the summer to pursue the transfer.