Manchester United have secured Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos this summer, but the club's midfield revamp is not complete. The next target should be France international Manu Kone, who impressed at the World Cup and could be available for a bargain £45m.
Midfield Rebuild Underway
United moved swiftly to fill the void left by Casemiro's departure. Tielemans joined after Belgium's World Cup elimination, while Santos arrived from Chelsea. However, manager Michael Carrick still needs a more physical, energetic presence in the middle of the park. Reports indicate United plan to sign one more midfielder this summer, and Kone fits the profile perfectly.
Kone's Rise to Prominence
The 25-year-old began his career at Toulouse in 2019 but made his name at Borussia Monchengladbach, where he excelled as a box-to-box No. 8. He moved to Roma in 2024 and became a key figure, helping the club secure a third-place finish in Serie A last season. Kone also shone for France at the World Cup before their semi-final exit to Spain.
Financial Constraints at Roma
Roma's desperate financial situation makes a sale inevitable this summer. Kone could be available for as little as £45m, and France's elimination gives United the green light to pursue a deal. The club previously capitalised on Belgium's exit to wrap up Tielemans's signing quickly. However, United must act swiftly as other clubs are also monitoring the situation.
Tactical Fit
Carrick's midfield options currently include Kobbie Mainoo, Tielemans, Santos, and potentially Mason Mount. All are under six feet tall and lack genuine physical stature. Kone would provide the athletic coverage and recovery runs that Mainoo often lacks, while also excelling at receiving the ball under pressure and thriving in possession-based systems. His pass completion rate is among the best in Serie A.
Cost-Effective Solution
Securing Kone for the estimated £45m would complete a midfield overhaul costing £131m – just £15m more than Manchester City paid for Elliot Anderson. This quartet would replace Casemiro's steel with younger, more athletic legs and give Carrick the tactical versatility to compete in the Champions League.
