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Manchester United will fast track new signing Sekou Koné to the first team, according to a new report.
United announced earlier this evening that the 18 year old had signed for the club from Malian side Guidars FC.
It was thought that the defensive midfielder would play in the Under 18s but according to The MEN, he “is considered a player with high potential by United and although he will initially join up with the academy, he’ll spend time training with the first team at Carrington, which means he could be fast-tracked if he demonstrates he can operate at the level required.”
The outlet further note that “Kone is thought to have a mixture of qualities – technical composure and quality with both feet – that will help him in England and United were impressed by his intensity and physical ability.”
Reporter Steven Railston also explains that Koné will be assimilated into life in Manchester in a similar fashion to Alejandro Garnacho, who signed in 2020. Intensive English lessons and an education into the club’s history will form part of the indoctrination.
Under 21s manager Travis Binnion will “oversee Koné”, meaning he is likely to bypass the Under 18s altogether.
With United announcing the signing of Manuel Ugarte this evening, Koné will have to impress to get anywhere near to a first team that also includes Casemiro and Kobbie Mainoo.
A right-footer, Koné has played 12 times for Mali at under 17 level.
He was particularly impressive in the U17s World Championship last November, when the Malians got to the semi-finals before narrowly losing to France.
Koné was the highest rated Malian player in that game.
United are not done there in terms of recruiting some of the world’s most highly rated teenagers.
They are also awaiting Premier League ratification before announcing the signing of exciting Arsenal forward, Chido Obi-Martin, and are strongly tipped to bag Norwegian attacking midfielder Sverre Nypan in January when he has turned 18.
Top image from Koné’s Instagram account.
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