Manchester United have moved to add Roma midfielder Manu Kone to their shortlist, with INEOS reportedly ready to fund a £50 million deal before the transfer window shuts.

Why is Kone on United’s radar now?

United’s midfield overhaul accelerated after the £85 million signings of Ederson and Andrey Santos. The club told TeamTalk it is hunting three new central midfielders this summer, and Kone, 25, fits the bill as a versatile defensive‑midfield or box‑to‑box option. He logged 37 appearances for Roma last season, scoring two goals and providing three assists, and his World Cup showing for France raised his profile across Europe.

How does the price compare with United’s recent spending?

Roma are prepared to sell Kone for around £50 million – a tidy profit on the under‑£20 million fee they paid when he arrived from Borussia Mönchengladbach in 2024. The Italian side needs to balance its books after qualifying for the Champions League, making Kone their most valuable saleable asset. United’s recent outlay of £85 million on two midfielders leaves room for a third addition without breaking the bank.

Who else is interested and why does United have an edge?

Intermediaries have spoken to Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City and Liverpool about Kone, but United hold an advantage: the Frenchman has expressed enthusiasm for a Premier League move. With Real Madrid likely to keep Aurelien Tchouaméni until 2031, United’s focus has shifted to alternatives like Kone, who can immediately slot into Erik ten Hag’s plans.

What does this mean for United’s season outlook?

United sit 3rd in the Premier League with 71 points from 38 games (20W‑11D‑7L) and a recent run of four wins and a draw (WWWWD). Their last result was a 3‑0 victory over Brighton on 24 May 2026, and they have scored 69 goals while conceding 50, a +19 goal difference. Adding a player of Kone’s profile could help close the 14‑point gap to leaders Arsenal and sustain the momentum ahead of the next fixture – a home clash with AC Milan on 15 August 2026. With Benjamin Šeško and Manuel Ugarte sidelined, depth in midfield becomes even more valuable.

When could the deal be sealed?

Sources say Roma are open to negotiations now, and INEOS’s willingness to front the £50 million fee could speed up talks. If United act quickly, Kone could become the third central midfielder confirmed before the window closes, giving Erik ten Hag a broader selection pool for the demanding second half of the season.