Manchester United considering move to sign Serie A star | OneFootball

Manchester United Consider Summer Move for Roma Midfielder Manu Kone

Manchester United are continuing their assessment of midfield reinforcements ahead of a pivotal transfer period, with Roma’s Manu Kone emerging as a player of strong internal interest. While the immediate focus at Old Trafford remains on domestic fixtures and stabilising performances under Ruben Amorim, planning behind the scenes is already intensifying as the January window approaches and longer-term options are evaluated.

United’s recruitment strategy is increasingly shaped by balance rather than impulse. The club are understood to be conscious of financial flexibility, squad age profile and tactical suitability, particularly in central midfield where changes are expected across the next two windows. Within that context, Kone has been discussed as a potential addition, albeit more realistically for the summer than the weeks ahead.

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United midfield planning under Amorim

Amorim’s system places heavy demands on central midfielders, requiring positional intelligence, intensity without the ball and the ability to progress play quickly under pressure. United’s current options have delivered mixed returns this season, with fitness concerns and long-term uncertainty surrounding several senior players contributing to the need for forward planning.

While the club explored midfield recruitment during the previous summer, priorities shifted as negotiations failed to reach workable conclusions. That has left United in a position where monitoring targets has continued rather than escalated, with an understanding that decisive movement may be required once the current campaign reaches its conclusion.

Kone, at 24, fits the age and development bracket United are keen to target. His profile aligns with a desire to reduce reliance on older midfielders while adding athleticism and tactical discipline, qualities that have become increasingly valued by United’s technical department.

Roma stance and contract position

Roma are not actively seeking to sell and are expected to resist any approach during the January window. The Italian club view Kone as a core squad member and are aware that his contractual situation places them in a position of strength. His deal runs until the end of the 2028/29 season, giving Roma significant leverage in any negotiations.

However, there is an acceptance within Serie A that substantial offers can prompt reassessment, particularly when they arrive from Premier League clubs. Roma’s valuation is believed to be in the region of £55 million, a figure reflecting both Kone’s importance and the broader inflation of the midfield market.

From United’s perspective, that valuation would require careful consideration. Any summer move would likely depend on player sales and clarity around outgoing midfielders, rather than an isolated pursuit. The club are expected to prioritise value and fit over marquee signings, even as pressure to rebuild persists.

Why Manu Kone appeals to Man Utd

Kone’s development in Italy has been closely tracked by several clubs, with his consistency, defensive awareness and ability to operate in high-intensity matches standing out. He is not viewed as a purely destructive midfielder, but rather as someone capable of linking phases of play while maintaining structure.

United’s interest is understood to be part of a broader shortlist rather than an advanced negotiation. The club continue to gather intelligence, including fitness data and tactical adaptability, before determining which targets to actively pursue. There is also awareness that competition for Kone’s signature could intensify should Roma soften their stance next summer.

Crucially, the player is said to be open to a Premier League move, viewing England as the next step in his career. That openness is noted, but United remain cautious about accelerating discussions prematurely, particularly given Roma’s current refusal to engage.

Next steps for United and Roma

As things stand, a January transfer appears highly unlikely. United are not expected to test Roma’s resolve during the winter window, instead focusing on internal solutions and short-term stability. The more significant decisions are set to come later in the season, once budgets, departures and tactical requirements are clearer.

For Roma, retaining Kone remains the priority, but the summer market could present opportunities that are difficult to ignore. United, meanwhile, will continue to weigh up whether he represents the right solution among a competitive field of midfield options.

The situation is one to watch closely. While no formal approach has been made, the groundwork is being laid, and the coming months are likely to determine whether interest develops into something more concrete.