Man United leading race for Roma's Koné but not rushing deal
Quick summary
Manchester United are reportedly ahead in the race to sign Roma midfielder Manu Koné but are in no rush to complete the deal.
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Attributed to original sourceSky Sports UK reports that Manchester United are leading the race to sign Roma midfielder Manu Koné, but the Red Devils are in no rush to finalise a deal with the Giallorossi.
Manchester United continue to monitor Roma and France midfielder Koné, who has also attracted interest from Al-Hilal.
Man United leading race for Roma midfielder Koné According to Sky Sports UK, Manchester United remain in pole position to sign the French midfielder, but are still not pushing to finalise a deal with Roma.
The British broadcaster claims that the Red Devils are expected to complete a third summer signing in central midfield after Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans, with Brighton’s Carlos Baleba their priority target at the moment.
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – JUNE 22: Manu Kone #6 of France arrives at the stadium before the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group I match between France and Iraq at Philadelphia Stadium on June 22, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) Manchester United, however, have not yet submitted an offer to sign the 22-year-old and Koné is now seen as an alternative target.
It is reported that Koné is also a cheaper alternative to Baleba, so the Red Devils are currently assessing their options before making official moves and offers.
“Man Utd are not in a rush to move for either midfielder just yet, with the duo part of a long list of midfield targets as the club continue to determine the best option to pursue, while also looking at other areas to reinforce the side,” Sky Sports UK noted.
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What happened
According to Sky Sport Italia, Manchester United are currently leading the race to sign Roma midfielder Manu Koné. However, the English club is not in a hurry to finalize the transfer, suggesting they are willing to take their time in negotiations. Roma would be open to selling the French midfielder for a significant fee, having invested heavily in his signing. The situation remains open, with United exploring the conditions of a potential deal.
Chance analysis
Manu Koné is a highly regarded young midfielder, and Manchester United's pursuit signals their intent to strengthen the center of the pitch. Roma's willingness to sell — likely at a premium — reflects their financial situation and the premium placed on the French international. United's patience suggests they are assessing alternatives or waiting for favorable terms, which could drag into the window. For Roma, losing Koné would be a significant midfield blow, while for United it would represent a notable addition to their squad rebuild.
A potential Koné departure weakens Roma's midfield options, while a signing would bolster United's central midfield depth.
Monitor Koné transfer developments as it could impact both Roma's midfield strength and United's squad composition for the upcoming season.