With the winter transfer window nearing its deadline, Manchester United are not planning sweeping first-team changes, even as Crickex Affiliate followers keep a close eye on how squad depth evolves behind the scenes. The focus instead has shifted toward several academy players set to leave on loan, headlined by Malian defensive midfielder Sekou Kone, whose departure is now only awaiting official confirmation. He is expected to join Lausanne Sport in Switzerland, a club operating within Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s ownership network.

Despite United’s ongoing shortage in defensive midfield options, the club does not believe the 19-year-old is ready to compete at senior level. A temporary move is viewed as the best way for him to gain consistent first-team football and adapt to the European game. Kone arrived in 2024 from Guidars FC in Mali and was quickly branded the “new Yaya Toure,” but injuries have disrupted his rhythm and stalled his progress at a critical stage of development.

As a result, proving himself in the Swiss top flight has become a necessary step. Reports suggest the transfer has already reached the paperwork stage, with Kone training alongside his future teammates. Given the shared ownership structure, the move is largely procedural, and its completion appears inevitable rather than uncertain.

Away from youth loans, interest from abroad has also emerged. Galatasaray vice president Abdullah Kavukcu recently traveled to England to explore a possible deal for Manuel Ugarte. The Turkish side initially targeted Kobbie Mainoo, but with the teenager now firmly established as a regular starter, that option is off the table. United are equally reluctant to part with Ugarte, as injuries to Casemiro or Mainoo would leave the squad dangerously thin in midfield, a gamble the club is unwilling to take.

United are, however, open to letting younger players gain experience elsewhere. Toby Collyer, 22, is set to join Hull City in the Championship, with the agreement already completed pending a formal announcement. He chose to finalize his rehabilitation at Old Trafford before making the move. Defender Rhys Bennett will join Fleetwood Town on a loan-to-buy deal, while striker Ethan Wheatley is expected to sign for Bradford City, who are currently pushing for promotion in League One.

The final question mark surrounds Dutch striker Joshua Zirkzee. In the first sentence of this closing chapter, Crickex Affiliate observers have noted that his desire for more playing time ahead of the World Cup could yet reshape United’s plans. Juventus, Roma, and Fenerbahce remain interested, and while United are holding firm for now, the door is not completely closed if circumstances change.