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Manchester United are closing in on a move for rising midfield talent

Originally posted on We All Follow United
By Rohit Sarkar | Last updated Sep 26, 2025 11:24 AM ET

Mouhamed Dabo is very close to joining Manchester United

Manchester United have faced ongoing difficulties in recent seasons due to the lack of a reliable defensive midfielder. This weakness has had serious consequences on the pitch, with opposing sides finding it far too easy to cut through the midfield and put pressure on the back line. As a result, United have conceded more goals than they should.

Without a commanding presence in that position, the team often loses control of midfield battles. The match against Fulham illustrated this, as United kept losing possession. Bruno Fernandes has had to play in deeper roles, which has reduced his attacking output. This situation continues to frustrate supporters, even as reports note that Kobbie Mainoo is working tirelessly to improve despite the club’s struggles, offering at least some promise in youth development.

Emerging talent and transfer talks

According to Africa Foot, Manchester United may have taken a significant step towards addressing these issues, with Mouhamed Dabo spending several weeks training at Carrington. The 17-year-old captain of Senegal’s Under-17 side has left a strong impression on the coaching staff, who admire his maturity and technical qualities for his age. During this time, the president of Bsport Academie travelled to England to discuss the possibility of a permanent transfer.

This trip raises hopes that the club will act swiftly to secure his services. Barcelona are also monitoring the youngster closely, and it is not yet clear where he will continue his development. United fans should watch closely to see whether the club can secure his signing. Meanwhile, reports suggest that Manchester United could move for another goalkeeper in 2026 despite Senne Lammens’ acquisition.

Opinion on Mouhamed Dabo’s Potential

Mouhamed Dabo represents the type of player Manchester United have lacked for too long. The midfielder can protect the defence while giving structure to the attack. Reports say he has a balanced and promising skill set, with tactical awareness, composure on the ball, strong tackling and the vision to dictate the tempo. Supporters have grown frustrated with recruitment missteps, yet his qualities suggest he could anchor the midfield and offer stability.

Barcelona’s interest indicates genuine potential. His trial with United’s youth teams shows that the club are taking his evaluation seriously. Of course, raw talent alone will not secure a breakthrough at senior level. He must develop physically to cope with the demands of European football, refine his passing range to suit the pace of the Premier League and maintain composure under pressure.

If the Senegalese prospect progresses steadily, he could provide a top European side, and Senegal’s national team, with a reliable option in the future. For Manchester United, signing him would not solve every midfield issue overnight, but it could provide the foundation for long-term improvement, something fans have been awaiting with increasing impatience.

This article first appeared on We All Follow United and was syndicated with permission.

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