Mamadou Sangare: United favourites to sign RC Lens midfielder in January | OneFootball

Manchester United are likely to explore options to bolster their midfield in the January transfer window. The Red Devils are expected to focus on the position in 2026, after significantly improving their attack this summer.

United have scored 30 goals in the Premier League this season, the second most in the league behind Manchester City (38). However, they are sixth in the table after 16 games, and are 10 points behind leaders Arsenal.

While goal-scoring has not been an issue of late, Ruben Amorim’s side has been hurt due to a lack of control in matches. There is a belief that the situation can be addressed by revamping the midfield.

Several midfielders on the radar

United have been linked with several Premier League-proven midfielders in recent weeks, with Carlos Baleba, Elliot Anderson and Adam Wharton among the names on Amorim’s radar.

While signing any one of the trio would significantly improve the team, securing their services mid-season will be next to impossible. Because of the nature of the finances involved, such moves are more likely in the summer.

However, the Red Devils have an urgent need for reinforcements in January if they are to salvage the season, which is why they are exploring alternative targets. It now appears that they have found a solution in Ligue 1.

United want Mamadou Sangare

According to TEAMtalk, United have set their sights on RC Lens midfielder Mamadou Sangare and are leading the race for his services.

“Manchester United have emerged as frontrunners in the race to sign RC Lens midfielder Mamadou Sangare, with sources revealing the 23-year-old’s stance on a move to Old Trafford, amid rival interest from the Premier League.”

“United’s interest intensified recently, with the club viewing Sangare as a cost-effective midfield reinforcement under Ruben Amorim.”

The report adds that the Malian is ready to join the Red Devils.

“Sources close to the player reveal he is particularly excited by the prospect of joining the Red Devils, seeing it as the ideal step to elevate his career. His enthusiasm for the English top flight is well-documented, making United his preferred destination amid growing attention.”

It is, however, also mentioned that Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham United are in the race for Sangare.

Who is Mamadou Sangare?

Sangare arrived at the Stade Bollaert-Delelis in August this year and is now an indispensable member of the first XI. The Malian has made 15 appearances in Ligue 1 this season, starting all but one of them, and has even chipped in with a goal and an assist.

Mamadou Sangare Stats: 2025/26 Season

Source: Transfermarkt.

The 23 year old is a midfield enforcer who excels in ball recovery, tackles and duels, attributes that make him an immediate fit in Amorim’s midfield. His efforts have been key to Lens’ impressive rise this season, as they sit at the top of the Ligue 1 table after 16 games.

Sangare is under contract until 2030, and reportedly has a €15 million valuation. While the French side will be reluctant to let the Malian go in mid-season, a suitable offer could turn their heads.

Final Thoughts

United have an urgent need for an athletic midfielder in January given their over-reliance on Casemiro, who will turn 34 in February and is out of contract in the summer. Meanwhile, Manuel Ugarte has been a disappointment so far and could be on his way out in the winter transfer window.

As such, a move for Sangare represents a low-risk opportunity for the Red Devils, and they must take it with both hands.

Featured image Christian Hofer via Getty Images

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