Man United Have ‘Made Contact’ to Sign 30-year-old Midfielder | OneFootball

Manchester United Target Corentin Tolisso as Midfield Reinforcements Take Shape

Tolisso’s Resurgence Sparks United Interest

Manchester United’s summer transfer activity is starting to gather pace, with L’Équipe reporting that the club has shown a concrete interest in Olympique Lyonnais captain Corentin Tolisso. The 30-year-old French midfielder, who enjoyed one of the finest seasons of his career last year, has emerged as a potential solution to the growing need for leadership and control in United’s midfield.

United have already made “initial contact with the player’s entourage,” according to L’Équipe. The article adds, “The Mancunian club, which will not be playing in any European Cup next season, has made initial contact with the player’s entourage. The latter is not indifferent to the idea of joining such a prestigious team, having already rejected offers from Turkey this summer.”

Tolisso, who has two years remaining on his Lyon contract, appears content to remain in France but has not shut the door on a move. With Lyon in financial difficulty and under pressure to balance the books, United could be well placed to capitalise.

Photo: IMAGO

Leadership and Experience a Key Appeal

Tolisso’s profile has long appealed to Premier League scouts. A World Cup winner with France in 2018, his blend of technique, physicality and positional discipline made him a vital figure at Bayern Munich during his time in the Bundesliga.

Now back at Lyon and wearing the captain’s armband following Alexandre Lacazette’s exit, Tolisso has rediscovered his best form. United, lacking a consistent deep-lying presence to guide younger talents like Kobbie Mainoo, are clearly intrigued by the prospect of signing someone who brings both experience and class.

With Bruno Fernandes often deployed higher up the pitch and Casemiro’s future uncertain, the midfield requires attention. Tolisso would add balance and calmness in possession, traits United were desperately short of last season.

Lyon’s Position and Financial Pressure

The situation at Lyon is complex. The club is recovering from a financial crisis and was only rescued by the FFF appeals committee last week. Tolisso’s wages are reportedly the highest at the club, and though OL are reluctant to part with their new captain, they are not blind to the economic advantage of a sale.

L’Équipe note that OL “are keen to build around Tolisso,” but also acknowledge that “a sale would not hurt the finances and would especially ease the wage bill.” While United would likely need to offer more than €10 million to secure a deal, the structure and timing of any offer could be key.

Photo: IMAGO

Other Suitors in the Frame

Manchester United are not alone in their interest. Saudi Arabia remains a genuine option, especially after Alexandre Lacazette moved to Neom, who are now monitoring Tolisso’s situation. Meanwhile, Atlético de Madrid could enter the race, particularly if Rodrigo De Paul completes a move to Inter Miami.

Yet there is a growing sense that United could present the most appealing project. Tolisso wants to remain in a top European league, and despite the absence of European football next season, the opportunity to become a central figure in United’s midfield reboot may tempt him.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Manchester United supporters, the idea of signing Corentin Tolisso might not come with the glamour of a marquee attacking name, but it should be welcomed all the same. United’s midfield was too often reactive and disjointed last season. A composed presence with Tolisso’s pedigree could be exactly what this squad needs.

Tolisso has the winning mentality that United used to be built upon. He has lifted major trophies and led teams under pressure. If the club is serious about rebuilding with intelligent, responsible signings who understand what it means to win, then Tolisso makes sense.

Fans may be wary of injuries, given his record in Germany, but his performances in Ligue 1 this past season suggest those concerns may be behind him. If the price remains in the region of €10–12 million, this could be a shrewd piece of business.

United have gambled too often on potential. It might be time to invest in someone who offers reliability and immediate influence.