Manchester United signs Malian U17 star Sekou Koné
Manchester United has added to its ranks one of Mali’s brightest footballing prospects, securing the signature of 18-year-old midfielder Sekou Koné. The young talent, who has made a name for himself as a standout player in the U17 World Cup, will be joining the English giants from Guidars FC Bamako, marking another key step in his rapidly rising career.
Renowned football insider Fabrizio Romano broke the news, confirming that the deal for Koné is fully agreed.
The official paperwork is expected to be completed after the player undergoes a medical examination next week.
The transfer fee is reported to be £1 million (approximately €1.18 million), with additional performance-based bonuses to be determined as Koné progresses.
Koné, a defensive midfielder born in 2006, has quickly gained a reputation as a promising talent within Malian football.
While he may not be slotted into Manchester United’s first team immediately, the club sees significant potential in his development.
The move to England’s Premier League marks a significant moment for both Koné and Mali, as the player becomes the latest African footballer to be recruited by a European heavyweight.
He joins the ranks of other young talents, like Chido Obi Martin, the Danish U17 international of Nigerian descent, who is also a target for Manchester United.
Koné’s signing reflects Manchester United’s long-term strategy of investing in youthful talent with the potential to become first-team stars.
Although he is not expected to feature in the senior squad this season, Koné will have the opportunity to hone his skills within one of the world’s most prestigious clubs, working alongside top coaches and players as he navigates his path toward the highest levels of professional football.
A key figure in Mali’s U17 national team, Koné’s rise to prominence began during the 2023 U17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Algeria, where he helped his country to a fourth-place finish.
However, it was at the FIFA U17 World Cup in Indonesia later that year where Koné truly shone.
He played in all seven of Mali’s matches during the tournament, contributing two assists and helping the Aiglons secure an impressive third-place finish.
His performances in Indonesia garnered attention from scouts across Europe, ultimately leading to his transfer to Manchester United.
As Koné prepares for the next chapter in his career, the expectations are high.
His technical ability, vision, and composure on the ball have already set him apart as one of the most exciting young defensive midfielders in Africa.
Though still in the early stages of his professional journey, the move to Manchester United offers him a platform to fulfill his potential on the global stage.
Koné’s transition from Mali to England will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike, as he seeks to make his mark in one of the toughest football leagues in the world.
For now, the young Malian star will focus on settling into life at Manchester United, where he has the chance to evolve into a future star for both club and country.
🚨🔴 EXCLUSIVE: Man United agree deal to sign 2006 born Mali international talent Sékou Koné from Guidars FC, here we go!
Koné was on the list of several clubs but United have agreed deal today. 🇲🇱
Considered top talent, he’s part of long term plans similar to Chido Obi Martin. pic.twitter.com/WywZyfyIp7
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 22, 2024
