Manchester United’s midfield could look very different in pre-season from what many would have expected a few weeks ago.
Earlier this week, United moved surprisingly quickly to secure the services of Andrey Santos from Chelsea. The Brazilian was not considered to be among the club’s preferred targets at the start of the summer.
Furthermore, until very recently, a move for Ederson appeared to be all wrapped up after United struck an agreement with Atalanta before the World Cup. However, according to several reports in Italy, the Red Devils have decided not to go ahead.
Manchester United in talks with Manu Kone’s agents
Saturday’s edition of Gazzetta dello Sport (via Sport Witness) claims Manchester United are keen on AS Roma midfielder Manu Kone.
It is understood United have contacted the France international’s agents in recent hours and are expected to make an offer to Roma. The Italian publication underline that Roma will not accept offers below €50 million.
The Colombes native possesses an imposing 6’1″ frame and exceptional ball control, which he uses effectively to shield the ball and progress it higher up the field.
At the World Cup, Kone has filled in perfectly for Aurelien Tchouameni, proving to be a strong presence in the middle of the park for Les Bleus.
Manchester United ready to submit offer for Manu Kone
According to Sport Mediaset, Manchester United are ready to offer €50m (£42.7m) to land Kone.
The Italian outlet underlines that United are seemingly focusing heavily on the Roma midfield dynamo following his excellent performances for his country in North America.
Manu Kone Serie A stats: 2025/26 Season
| Appearances | 29 |
|---|---|
| Minutes per game | 85 |
| Touches | 61.4 |
| Key passes | 0.9 |
| Accurate passes | 42.7 |
| Interceptions | 0.6 |
| Tackles | 1.7 |
Source: Sofascore
The 25-year-old has made four World Cup appearances and is now preparing for the semi-final against Spain.
Meanwhile, Sport Mediaset reveals that United abandoned their pursuit of Ederson after the Atalanta star failed his second medical test upon his return from the World Cup.
It is believed there is an issue with his right meniscus. Ederson sustained the knee injury last year during a friendly against Cologne.
Featured image Paolo Bruno via Getty Images
The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social
