Manchester United-linked midfielder Manu Kone is reportedly being targeted by Al-Ahli. According to reports, the AS Roma and France international is the subject of interest from the Saudi Arabian-owned giants, sparking fresh competition for United.
Sky Sport's Sascha Tavolieri has claimed that Al-Ahli are now targeting Kone. The Saudi Pro League side have reportedly contacted Roma, enquiring over the Frenchman's price-tag. Kone starred for France during the World Cup but couldn't inspire them to the final as they bowed out to eventual winners Spain in the semi-final.
Midfield rebuild under way
It has been suggested that United are monitoring Kone as part of their midfield rebuild, which has already seen Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans enter the fray at Old Trafford.
However, the news of the Saudi outfit entering the market poses as a fresh transfer concern for United missing out on a possible target.
Earlier blow from Al-Hilal
Michael Carrick's side were dealt a blow this week when Al-Hilal struck a £68million deal with West Ham United for Crysencio Summerville. The Hammers star was a player that United monitored and considered a bid for the 24-year-old, though there was no suggestion that the club would make an attempt to join the race to sign the former Leeds man.
Kone has been repeatedly linked with a move to the Premier League as Roma face competition for one of their prized assets. L'Equipe had reported that the United had opened talks with the Serie A side over the possibility of signing the 25-year-old.
Kone's preference
Sky Sports have claimed that Kone does favour a move to England's top-flight, but the possibility of a move to the Saudi Pro League has not been ruled out.
Midfielders have been among the list of priorities for United this summer. Already, the club have failed in their efforts to sign Atlanta star Ederson despite reaching an agreement for the Brazilian. The deal became complex after his medical raised concerns about a knee injury that he suffered last season. United had planned to renegotiate the deal, with a view that it could be resurrected in the future. However, the move subsequently collapsed and the 27-year-old signed a new deal with the Italian side.
