Rashford the Bait in United’s Koné Pursuit

A €60m Midfield Powerhouse

Manchester United are looking to add fresh energy to their midfield, and Roma’s Manu Koné has emerged as a primary target. The France international, who featured during Les Bleus’ fourth-place World Cup finish, is currently on a post-tournament break — but there is a growing sense in Rome that his stay could prove temporary.

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Roma are wrestling with Financial Fair Play constraints that limit their own recruitment. Selling Koné would free up liquidity, but the Italians are said to be holding firm on a valuation of around €60 million. With both United and Al-Ahli credited with interest, the Red Devils are reported to be hesitating over that asking price.

Koné himself is understood to be open to the Premier League, though a move to PSG is also said to appeal. He joined Roma from Borussia Mönchengladbach in 2024 on a deal to 2029, contributing two goals and three assists in 37 games last season.

Not Everyone at Old Trafford Is Convinced

Despite reportedly positive early contact with Koné’s camp, the move is said to lack unanimous backing internally. Some decision-makers are wary of committing €60m to one player when other areas need investment — even with United already active this window, having secured Youri Tielemans, Andrey Santos and Tynan Thompson.

Roma, for their part, are planning for every outcome — including talks over RB Leipzig’s Antonio Nusa — and may need other sales to satisfy FFP if a Rashford-based deal falls through. As always, nothing is done until it’s signed. Our AI engine will keep tracking United’s business and the wider market.

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