Manchester United have made the first move in the race for Roma midfielder Manu Kone, opening formal transfer talks for the France international valued at €60 million (£51 million). The 25-year-old has attracted interest from Arsenal and Liverpool, but United's early action gives them an advantage, according to L'Equipe.
World Cup Impact Drives Interest
Kone's performances at the World Cup were a major catalyst for the transfer interest. He displaced Aurelien Tchouameni from France's starting lineup and was sorely missed during the semi-final loss to Spain. His displays have drawn praise from compatriot and World Cup winner Patrick Vieira, who called him "the best midfielder in France" during ITV's World Cup coverage.
"He had a really good season in Serie A with Roma," Vieira said. "He came to the World Cup after a couple of injuries. He is for me today the best midfielder in France. I'd put him ahead of Tchouameni and Rabiot, because he has this mobility, he is aggressive, he is a ball-winner, and he has the technical ability to be part of the build-up, has the facility with the ball to break lines and move forward."
Roma's Financial Position Forces Sale
Despite Roma qualifying for the Champions League, the club needs to offload players to balance the books. Kone was always the most likely candidate to generate a significant fee, with his rising price tag reflecting his growing reputation. Italian sources suggest United's withdrawal from a deal for Atalanta's Ederson was a sign they had identified a new target in Kone.
United's Midfield Reinforcements Continue
Manchester United have made midfield a priority this summer, already signing Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos for a combined £85 million. However, they are willing to spend more to bring in additional quality. Kone would push United's spending past the £100 million mark and would be their first signing from outside the Premier League, as the club has focused on domestic targets so far.
Arsenal's Interest Remains
Arsenal have also been linked with Kone but are heavily pursuing Newcastle's Bruno Guimaraes, who reportedly wants to leave for the newly crowned champions. United's early move could prove decisive in securing the French midfielder.
