Manchester United are preparing a bid within a few days for another midfielder. Manu Kone has already agreed to the transfer.
After securing Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos, United continue their quest to further strengthen their midfield. Now Roma’s Manu Kone is the big target.
Read: Pep Guardiola keeps the door open: “I have a real connection with Great Britain”
The Red Devils have considered a sea of names, but have now landed on the French international as their next top priority. The problem? Chelsea is also in place.
As we revealed on Thursday, Chelsea are very excited about Kone and have already started talks with Roma – while also discussing Alejandro Garnacho’s possible move to the Italian capital.
Both clubs can thus meet in an intense battle for signatures.
Kone has said yes to United
According to Italian Gazzetta dello Sport, United have already contacted Kone’s representatives – and received clear information that he is fully willing to move to Old Trafford this summer.
The positive feedback has given United wind in their sails, and the club is expected to make a bid within a few days.
However, Chelsea are also ready to bid immediately, so Michael Carrick’s men are unlikely to get an easy win.
READ: FIFA praises Andreas Schelderup’s fantastic World Cup goal
£51 million – the price tag that fits
Kone’s future will probably be decided after France play the bronze final against England on Saturday night. The days that follow will be crucial for who wins the battle for the Frenchman.
TEAMtalk’s transfer insider Graeme Bailey confirmed on Friday that the Premier League duo will probably have to shell out around £51 million to lure Kone away from Roma.
“Manu Kone is a player United and several English clubs have always appreciated, but there have been some historical doubts,” Bailey said.
“Liverpool looked at him long and hard a few summers ago, before they chose other targets. Since then, he has really developed – especially after his move to Rome.
“United will be very happy”
Bailey stresses that United see Kone as one of the more serious options for the final midfield spot.
“The fact that he is available for approximately £51 million fits perfectly into their strategy and allows them to allocate the budget to other signings.
“It will be great satisfaction at United if they give Carrick three new top-class midfielders for a total sum of £135 million – given the insane prices that are circulating this summer.
“I’ve been told that United are very attractive to Kone, and his camp has made that clear to Jason Wilcox and the rest of the management.
