If ever there was a more favourable moment for Manchester United’s promising academy midfielders to make their breakthrough into the senior squad, it is now.

With Casemiro departing and Manuel Ugarte expected to be sidelined for an extended period after sustaining an injury while representing Uruguay at the World Cup, the Red Devils need at least three fresh midfield additions to strengthen the core of Michael Carrick’s side.

One of these signings appears close to completion, as Ederson is scheduled to undergo his medical at United this week. The focus will soon shift to identifying the next player who could follow the Brazilian to Old Trafford.

However, securing other top targets has proven to be a complex challenge. It remains uncertain whether United will opt for a marquee signing or pursue a double swoop for more attainable midfield prospects.

If a big-money transfer for a high-profile name such as Alex Scott or Aurélien Tchouaméni materialises, the club might rely on their academy to provide a third midfield reinforcement.

Under ideal circumstances, this would have been the right time for Sekou Koné to make his senior breakthrough, but that scenario now appears improbable.

When Koné signed, expectations at United were high. The Malian talent was widely regarded as one of the most exciting young midfielders around.

After joining in the summer of 2024, his first season was dedicated to adapting to English football while playing for the academy side. He excelled at youth level and was even described as “unplayable” at one stage.

Heading into last season, he was tipped to progress to the next level and begin earning senior minutes. Unfortunately, a fractured eye socket sustained in a collision against Tamworth derailed his momentum, keeping him out for several months.

The injury setback hindered his development, and upon recovery, INEOS sought to reignite his progress by arranging a loan move to Lausanne Sport, one of United’s sister clubs.

His spell in Switzerland, however, did not go as planned. Koné struggled for game time at Lausanne Sport, making it a disappointing loan stint overall.

This summer, the expectation was for the 20-year-old to return to Manchester United and take part in pre-season training, offering him a chance to showcase his abilities. Yet, it now seems that he will remain at Lausanne Sport for another loan spell.

Koné has already begun pre-season training with the Swiss outfit and even featured in the second half of their 1-0 friendly victory over Étoile. With his involvement there, he is unlikely to be included in United’s pre-season plans.

The hope remains that an extended stay at Lausanne Sport will allow him to finally establish consistency and progress in his career. Meanwhile, other promising United academy players such as Jim Thwaites and Tyler Fletcher will look to seize their opportunity during pre-season to impress Carrick and earn a spot in the first-team setup for the upcoming campaign.