Manchester United have made the first attempt to sign France midfielder Manu Kone as they begin formal talks with Roma.
Valued at €60million (£51m), Kone caught the eyes of top European clubs with good display at the just concluded FIFA World Cup. The Roma midfielder managed to dislodge Aurelien Tchouameni from the first-team and was then a big miss during France’s loss in the semi-final against Spain.
He is now set to leave for a new adventure with Manchester United, Arsenal and Liverpool battling it out for his signature.
According to L’Equipe, United have acted first by holding formal talks with Roma.
The Red Devils were set to sign Atalanta’s Ederson but things have changed. Those in Italy believed United’s decision to back out of the deal was because they had identified a new target.
Manu Kone of France during the 2026 World Cup match between France and Spain. (Photo by Stefan Koops/EYE4IMAGES/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Kone has now been identified as the main man.
United have strengthened their midfield this summer, bringing in Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa and Andrey Santos from Chelsea.
The two signings have cost them £85m but they look willing to spend more.
Kone would take their spending well pay the £100m mark and he would be their first addition from outside the Premier League with the club looking to their rivals before considering overseas signings at present.
Arsenal have also been linked with Kone but they are reportedly prioritising bringing in Bruno Guimaraes from Newcastle United.
The Brazilian midfielder has reportedly express a desire to leave Newcastle and head to the newly crowned champions.
