Kone talks begin between Manchester United and Roma over €60m star
Quick summary
Manchester United and Roma have opened negotiations over a €60m-rated player named Kone, with talks underway between the two clubs.
Full article
Attributed to original sourceL’Equipe claim that Manchester United have begun formal talks with Roma for France international Manu Koné, with an asking price of €60m, leading Arsenal in the race.
The midfielder impressed so much in the 2026 World Cup that he pushed Aurelien Tchaouameni to the bench and was sorely missed when dropped for the semi-final against Spain.
EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY – JUNE 30: Manu Kone #6 of France inspects the pitch before the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round Of 32 match between France and Sweden at New York New Jersey Stadium on June 30, 2026 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Mattia Ozbot/Getty Images) Although Roma qualified for the Champions League, they still need sales to raise funds, and Koné was always the most likely to bring in a big cash sum.
Manchester United leading race for Koné FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS – JUNE 26: Manu Kone #6 of France is challenged by Patrick Berg #6 of Norway during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group I match between Norway and France at Boston Stadium on June 26, 2026 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Mattia Ozbot/Getty Images) His price tag over the last few months has shot up from the previous €50m to at least €60m following these World Cup exploits.
L’Equipe in France claim that Manchester United have started formal negotiations with Roma for the player, putting them ahead of Premier League rivals Arsenal in the race.
It is an advance from the last few days, when Italian reports noted that only the player’s entourage had been contacted, not yet Roma.
The same source also reports that two other Premier League sides have expressed an interest, with one of them believed to be Liverpool, but that the Old Trafford side certainly has the upper hand.
It was assumed in Italian media that when Manchester United pulled out of their €45m deal with Atalanta for Ederson, it was not so much due to a failed medical, but rather changing their minds about which Serie A target to go for this summer.
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What happened
Transfer discussions have reportedly begun between Manchester United and AS Roma regarding midfielder Kone, valued at around €60 million. The negotiations signal Roma's willingness to negotiate one of their prized assets, while Manchester United look to strengthen their squad. The outcome of the talks could reshape both clubs' transfer strategies ahead of the upcoming window.
Chance analysis
A €60m-rated player moving between Manchester United and Roma would represent a significant cross-league transfer linking the Premier League and Serie A. For Manchester United, acquiring Kone could address squad depth needs, while Roma would gain substantial financial resources to reinvest. The negotiation phase suggests the deal is not yet concluded, and final fee, structure, and player terms remain key variables.
If completed, Manchester United would gain a high-value midfield reinforcement while Roma would lose a key player but receive significant transfer funds.
Monitor negotiation progress as a completed transfer would directly impact both Manchester United's and Roma's squad composition for upcoming fixtures.