​Liverpool and Manchester United are again being linked with a move for Manu Kone, with Roma making it clear that any deal for the midfielder will require a major financial push. According to Corriere Dello Sport, the Serie A club have already turned down a €40 million offer from Atletico Madrid and are now signalling a price point of €60 million, around £51 million.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementThat stance has put Premier League clubs on alert, with Liverpool and Manchester United both credited with strong interest in the France international. Roma’s message is straightforward and has been communicated widely, particularly to those sounding out the situation in England. “The Giallorossi club has no intention of equating Koné’s valuation with that of Hjulmand who has just been bought from Atletico and, on the strength of the Frenchman’s performances on the world stage, has set a precise price: sixty million euros, not one less,” it’s reported.There is also a clear indication that the chase could develop further in the weeks ahead. “A clear message, delivered to agents and intermediaries has also arrived in the Premier League, where Manchester United and Liverpool are following the evolution of the situation with great attention.”For Liverpool, this is a familiar market track. Kone was discussed internally during the 2023 midfield rebuild, when he was at Borussia Monchengladbach and viewed as a high-level option with athleticism, ball-winning ability and scope for development. A move did not materialise at that stage, yet the profile has remained attractive and his rise since then has only strengthened that view.Photo: IMAGOAdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementManchester United, meanwhile, are moving assertively in this window and continue to assess midfield additions as part of a broader squad reshaping. If both clubs decide to act, Roma’s valuation leaves little room for negotiation and sets up the prospect of a high-cost battle for one of Serie A’s most coveted midfielders.There is logic to Liverpool’s renewed attention. Kone combines mobility, intensity and technical security, traits that suit the demands of top-end Premier League football. Whether that interest becomes a formal approach may depend on wider priorities, outgoing business and how firmly Roma hold their line as the market develops.At present, the key detail is simple. Roma are not inviting bids, they are setting terms. Liverpool and Manchester United are watching closely, and if either club want Manu Kone, the starting point appears to be £51 million.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementFrom a Liverpool fan’s perspective, this report makes plenty of sense. Manu Kone has felt like one of those names that never fully disappears from the club’s thinking. He was admired before, he has matured since, and there is a feeling that his game now looks even more ready for the pace and physical demands of English football.The biggest attraction is