​Manchester United have expanded their shortlist with Manu Kone as they push to secure a third midfield signing this summer. The Roma midfielder is eager to test himself in the Premier League, and Roma are open to selling him for the right price, which is believed to be around £50 million. Roma’s readiness to cash in stems from a financial necessity; despite sealing a spot in the Champions League, the Italian club must generate funds to meet UEFA’s financial regulations, and Kone is viewed internally as their most valuable asset to sell.
Kone’s profile aligns with what Michael Carrick desires in midfield. The 25-year-old displayed versatility last season, operating as both a defensive midfielder and a box-to-box option across 37 appearances, recording two goals and three assists. Patrick Vieira has called him the best midfielder in France, and his stock rose further after his performances at the World Cup, where he started four of France’s six matches, helped lay the groundwork for the attackers around him, and even filled in for Aurelien Tchouameni when needed.
Tchouameni had been United’s target of choice, but he pledged his future to Real Madrid after discussions with Jose Mourinho, forcing United to move more quickly on alternatives. The sense of urgency is heightened by other factors as well. TEAMtalk reports that Kone has emerged as a serious option amid ongoing uncertainty over Ederson’s move from Atalanta, which has been complicated by medical concerns. Additionally, Manuel Ugarte’s long-term knee injury has added to United’s need to strengthen the midfield, though they still face stiff competition.
Interest in Kone has spread to several of United’s Premier League rivals. Intermediaries have reportedly approached Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City, and Liverpool, with Arsenal viewed as the most formidable challenger. Meanwhile, Andrey Santos is close to a £50 million move from Chelsea, underscoring how the market is shaping up for midfields in Europe this summer.
Kone’s transfer value to Roma began when he joined from Borussia Monchengladbach for under £20 million in 2024. A £50 million sale would nearly double Roma’s investment in a single season, reflecting the rapid rise in his profile and potential resale value for the Italian club. As the summer window progresses, United’s pursuit of Kone sits within a broader plan to reinforce the spine of their team, particularly in midfield, where competition is fierce and opportunities to secure high-quality talent are limited.
Read more about Kane’s view on England potentially reaching another level and other related developments. See also the ongoing debate surrounding Ederson’s move, with Manchester United denying that a deal is off. For more updates and analysis, follow our coverage across Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, and TikTok.