Manchester United have opened formal talks with Roma over France midfielder Manu Kone, as they attempt to steal a march on Arsenal and Liverpool in the race for his signature.
The 23-year-old, valued at about €60m (£51m), emerged as one of the standout performers for France at the 2026 World Cup, prompting intense interest from several of Europe’s leading clubs, according to the Mirror.
United are understood to have initiated the first official contact with Roma regarding a potential transfer, positioning themselves at the front of the queue as the summer window gathers pace.
United move first in transfer battle
Arsenal and Liverpool are both monitoring Kone closely and are expected to rival United should Roma formally open the door to a sale.
Kone’s dynamic performances in the heart of midfield for France at the World Cup have significantly boosted his profile and price tag. His displays were widely described as among the best of the tournament for a central midfielder, with the player “proving himself a shining star at the World Cup”, which has left several clubs “on alert to sign him in the summer transfer window”.
United, however, are trying to gain an early advantage by beginning direct discussions with Roma rather than waiting for a full bidding war to develop.
Roma qualify for Champions League but need sales
Despite securing qualification for next season’s Champions League, Roma are still expected to sanction at least one major outgoing transfer to balance their finances.
Kone has emerged as the leading candidate to be sold for a substantial fee, with club figures aware that his World Cup form has pushed his valuation higher than at any previous point in his career.
The Italian side’s need to generate funds has only fuelled speculation that a move could be completed this summer if an offer matching their asking price arrives.
In Italy, some observers believe Manchester United’s decision to step back from a move for Atalanta midfielder Ederson was linked to the club “identifying a new priority target” – a hint that Kone has now moved to the top of their shortlist.
Midfield rebuild continues at Old Trafford
Reinforcing central midfield has been placed at the heart of United’s recruitment strategy this summer.
The club have already invested heavily in the position, with the arrivals of Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos costing a combined £85m. Yet United are said to remain in the market for at least one more high‐calibre midfielder to elevate the quality and depth of their options.
Kone, whose athleticism, ball-carrying ability and defensive work have caught the eye at both club and international level, is seen as the type of player who could transform United’s engine room.
Club officials appear prepared to spend significantly again if they believe Kone can anchor their midfield for years to come, even as competition from Arsenal and Liverpool threatens to drive the price upwards.
With Roma braced for bids and three Premier League giants circling, the Frenchman’s future is shaping up to be one of the defining transfer sagas of the summer.
