Manu Kone: Manchester United linked with move for Roma and France midfielder

France and Cote d’Ivoire midfielder Manu Kone, currently at Roma, is being linked with a move to Manchester United as the Premier League club explore options to reinforce their central midfield this summer.

Kone, 25, is under contract with the Serie A side until June 2029 and is valued at around 50 million, meaning Roma are under no pressure to sell and any deal is likely to require a substantial fee. He joined the Italian club from Borussia Monchengladbach in August 2024 for 18 million and has since established himself in Serie A, making 63 league appearances for Roma and scoring four goals.

The midfielder has built a solid profile across Europes major leagues, having previously played 79 times in the Bundesliga for Monchengladbach before moving to Italy. His exposure to European competition extends to the Europa League, where he has featured 17 times, adding further top-level experience that is understood to appeal to clubs in England.

Kone is currently involved at the 2026 World Cup, where he has made four appearances, starting the majority of his sides matches and featuring in more than half of their total minutes at the tournament. His performances on the international stage are thought to have sharpened interest ahead of the new club season.

Romas long-term deal with the midfielder, who wears the number 17 shirt, gives the Italian side a strong negotiating position, and there is no indication that talks with Manchester United have progressed beyond initial interest.