Man Utd open talks with Roma over £51m France midfielder Manu Kone amid Arsenal interest

Manchester United have begun formal talks with Roma over the signing of French World Cup star Manu Kone in a deal that could reach €60m (£51m), placing them ahead in a Premier League battle that also involves Arsenal and Liverpool.

United make first move for World Cup breakout star

According to the UK newspaper the Mirror, United have taken the first concrete step in the race by opening official negotiations with Roma for the 23-year-old central midfielder, who enhanced his reputation with standout performances for France at the 2026 World Cup.

Kone’s displays for Les Bleus in the tournament are understood to have convinced several of Europe’s leading clubs that he is ready for a major move this summer. His form on the global stage has significantly driven up his market value, with Roma now looking to capitalise.

Arsenal and Liverpool are both monitoring the player and are expected to rival United should Roma signal a willingness to sell. However, at this stage it is United who are reported to have moved first, hoping to gain a crucial advantage in negotiations.

Roma under pressure to sell despite Champions League return

Roma have secured qualification for next season’s Champions League, but the Italian club still face financial pressure to balance their books and are planning at least one high‐value sale.

Kone has emerged as the leading candidate to be sacrificed, with his World Cup exploits making him one of the most marketable assets in the squad. The midfielder’s impressive form has reinforced Roma’s belief that they can command a premium fee in the current window.

In Italy, some observers had linked Manchester United’s decision to cool their interest in Atalanta midfielder Ederson to the emergence of a “new primary target” – a shift now widely interpreted as the Premier League side pivoting firmly towards Kone.

Midfield overhaul continues at Old Trafford

Manchester United have made strengthening the heart of their midfield a priority this summer. The club have already invested heavily, bringing in Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos for a combined outlay of around £85m.

Despite that spending, United are still seeking additional quality and depth in the centre of the pitch and appear prepared to commit further significant funds if they can land Kone.

The Frenchman is viewed as a dynamic option capable of adding energy, ball-winning ability and progression from deep – attributes United are keen to reinforce as they reshape their squad for the coming season.

Arsenal, meanwhile, are also in the market for midfield reinforcements as they look to sustain a Premier League title challenge and push deeper into European competition. Liverpool, too, are rebuilding their engine room and have not ruled out entering the race should the opportunity arise.

With three of England’s biggest clubs circling and Roma open to a sale at the right price, Kone’s future is expected to be one of the central transfer sagas of the summer window. United’s early move has given them a foothold, but any agreement will likely depend on how far they – and their rivals – are willing to go to meet Roma’s valuation.