Manchester United have opened formal talks with Roma over a potential £51 million deal for France international Manu Kone, according to French outlet L'Equipe. The Premier League club is attempting to outpace rivals Liverpool and reigning champions Arsenal in securing the midfielder's signature.
World Cup standout
The 25-year-old impressed at the World Cup, displacing Real Madrid's Aurelien Tchouameni from Didier Deschamps' starting XI. He missed France's semi-final defeat to Spain due to a minor injury sustained against Morocco. Kone's performances increased interest from several clubs, with Roma needing player sales despite Champions League qualification.
Vieira's praise
Former France international Patrick Vieira lauded Kone during the tournament, telling ITV: "He had a really good season in Serie A with Roma. 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."
United's midfield overhaul
Manchester United have already spent £85 million on midfielders Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos this summer, but remain determined to add further quality. Kone would push expenditure beyond £100 million and become their first signing from outside the Premier League, as the club initially focused on domestic targets before exploring foreign markets.
Competition from Arsenal
Arsenal have also been linked with Kone but are strongly connected to Newcastle's Bruno Guimaraes, who reportedly wishes to join the newly-crowned champions. United's swift action may give them an edge in the transfer battle.
