Man Utd plot £50m Kone move as midfield rebuild shifts

Manchester United have added Manu Kone to their shortlist as they seek a third midfield signing this summer.

The Roma man is keen to test himself in the Premier League, and the Serie A club are willing to sell for the right price. That figure is understood to be around £50m.

Roma’s willingness is rooted in necessity. Despite qualifying for the Champions League, the Italian club need player sales to satisfy UEFA’s financial regulations. Kone is viewed internally as their most valuable saleable asset.

Man Utd plot £50m Kone move as midfield rebuild shifts

His profile fits what Michael Carrick needs. The 25-year-old operated as both a defensive midfielder and a box-to-box option across 37 appearances last season, contributing two goals and three assists.

Patrick Vieira has described him as the best midfielder in France. The World Cup has only enhanced his standing.

Kone has started four of France’s six matches, laying the platform for the attacking talent ahead of him. He also deputised for Aurelien Tchouameni during the tournament.

Tchouameni was United’s dream target, but he has committed his future to Real Madrid after talks with Jose Mourinho. His decision forced United to accelerate their alternatives.

The urgency has grown for other reasons, too. TEAMtalk reports Kone has become a serious option amid the uncertainty surrounding Ederson, whose move from Atalanta has been thrown into doubt after medical concerns.

Manuel Ugarte’s long-term knee injury has added to the need. United face competition, however.

Intermediaries have sounded out Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City and Liverpool, with the Gunners considered the most serious rivals. Andrey Santos, meanwhile, is closing on a £50m move from Chelsea.

Kone joined Roma from Borussia Monchengladbach for under £20m in 2024. A £50m sale would more than double their investment in just one season.