Manchester United chase Roma midfielder Koné in £45m deal

Rio Ferdinand announced on his YouTube channel that Manchester United has reached an agreement to sign Roma midfielder Manu Koné for £45 million (€53 million). Ferdinand, citing confirmation from journalist Fabrizio Romano, described the French midfielder as an excellent fit for Manchester United's 4-2-3-1 system under manager Carrick. Koné has emerged as one of Roma's most sought-after players following his performances at the World Cup. The 24-year-old has attracted interest from multiple clubs, including Chelsea under Xabi Alonso, but Manchester United have positioned themselves as the frontrunners in recent days. The transfer would represent a significant departure from Roma's midfield. Ferdinand stated: "Fabrizio Romano confirmed it to me, Manchester has reached an agreement for Koné and will pay him 45 million pounds (53 million euros). An excellent player for Carrick's 4-2-3-1." The announcement by the former Manchester United defender adds weight to speculation surrounding the midfielder's future at the Giallorossi.

Roma must sign two players to complement Paulo Dybala and unlock Gian Piero Gasperini's tactical approach, according to analysis of the club's transfer window. A message was reportedly sent in Portuguese to a rival manager requesting Endrick, but it remains unread. Summerville has attracted interest but carries a high asking price; Moreira, by contrast, has generated optimism at the club. Robinio Vaz suffered an injury on his first day of training and is expected to be sidelined for a month. Lorenzo Pellegrini faces a fresh setback related to an injury from April, and his contract renewal talks are proceeding cautiously because he is unlikely to train with the squad while recovering. The timing contrasts with expectations for a smooth renewal process, though the club has previously moved slowly on renewals, signings, and departures alike. Manu Koné's position strengthens Roma's hand in any potential negotiation with Manchester United, as the midfielder holds a three-year contract and Roma controls the dialogue. One commentator stated: "You now need to find a couple of players that suit the manager's style of play. There's a necessity to bring in two players alongside Dybala who can change the tactical setup." Regarding potential signings, analysis suggests Summerville is a capable player but has been elevated in perception simply because an Italian club is pursuing him; he is described as more fundamentally sound than previous targets like Greenwood, though Roma should abandon pursuit of Garnacho due to unjustifiable technical and economic complications.

Roma's attacking plans have been disrupted by injury to Robinio Vaz, who will miss at least two weeks. Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini had hoped to showcase the French forward in early friendlies to attract buyers and move him out on loan, with Bologna having made enquiries. Vaz, signed from Marseille for €25 million, played only 205 minutes across 12 Serie A appearances last season and never started a match. Artem Dovbyk faces a similar plight, having cost nearly €40 million two years ago and now being pushed out for the second consecutive summer. A move to Genoa has failed to gain traction, partly due to his high wages, leaving Roma keen to monetise his departure. As negotiations drag on, a loan deal with a redemption option is gaining ground. With Donyell Malen not returning from holiday until 22 July, Dovbyk will be Gasperini's sole available striker for two early friendlies against the Primavera — one scheduled for tomorrow afternoon and another on Sunday. Gasperini continues to press for a new attacking signing. Tresoldi remains the target as Malen's backup, and the player has agreed personal terms and is ready to join Roma's project. However, Club Bruges has not lowered their €30 million asking price. Atletico Madrid and Borussia Dortmund have also entered the race, leaving Roma at risk of losing out entirely. Tresoldi's deal remains independent of Dovbyk's ongoing exit.