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“Great market opportunity” – Ornstein’s Man United transfer update on “excellent” World Cup star

15 July 2026 at 21:31

David Ornstein says there could be a “great market opportunity” for Manchester United and other clubs to sign Roma midfielder Manu Kone this summer.

The France international has been in superb form in Serie A and also put in some “excellent” displays for Les Bleus at the 2026 World Cup.

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Kone has been linked with a number of top clubs in recent times, and it seems Ornstein is aware of Man Utd’s interest in him, with the Athletic journalist describing him as a good cheap option on the market this summer…

A lot of reports suggest that Manchester United are looking at him, and I think that would be excellent.

“It's, from what we hear, a great market opportunity, the value that you could get him from Roma.”

France’s Manu Kone was one of the World Cup’s breakout stars – and… pic.twitter.com/xi1fA5gZJE

— The Athletic | Football (@TheAthleticFC) July 15, 2026

“It’s, from what we hear, a great market opportunity, the value that you could get him from Roma,” Ornstein said of Kone.

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Manu Kone transfer: What we know so far

Kone previously made a name for himself at Borussia Monchengladbach before moving to Roma in 2024, in an initial loan move that later became permanent.

The 25-year-old now clearly seems to be on United’s radar, following updates from both Ornstein in the video above, as well as a recent YouTube post from Fabrizio Romano.

MUFC have already confirmed the signings of Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos in midfield, but it seems they’re keen on a third new addition in that position.

Do Man United need Manu Kone?

Some fans might feel a third new midfielder is a bit excessive, but there could be a case for completely revamping that position.

Casemiro has just left Old Trafford after coming to the end of his contract, while Manuel Ugarte is out with a long-term injury and hadn’t particularly impressed enough to be a regular starter for the club anyway.

There’s also Kobbie Mainoo, but if Michael Carrick can rotate between him, Kone, Tielemans, and Santos, that should cover the team well for the season ahead, with the team now set to have more games due to being back in the Champions League.

The post “Great market opportunity” – Ornstein’s Man United transfer update on “excellent” World Cup star appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Fabrizio Romano reveals Manchester United “made a call” to star’s agent over surprise transfer

15 July 2026 at 00:21

Manchester United have reportedly had recent contact with the agents of Roma midfielder Manu Kone as they look for a third signing in that position this summer.

The Red Devils have already officially confirmed the arrivals of both Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos in midfield, but it seems they’re surprisingly still looking for more in that area of their squad.

A replacement for the departing Casemiro was undoubtedly needed, while Manuel Ugarte is also injured after generally struggling for form, so two new signings looked sensible.

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A third perhaps looks like a bit too much, however, when other positions also surely need strengthening.

Still, Romano says United have had contact over Kone as they continue to look for new additions in that department.

Fabrizio Romano on Manchester United’s Manu Kone pursuit

Speaking in his latest post on his YouTube channel, Romano said: “Manchester United are still looking at midfielders. (There are) many names among the defensive midfielders.

“Many of you asking me, can you give us some names? It’s still early to indicate who is going to be the wanted player for Manchester United. I will tell you in the next days was going to develop there.

“I can tell you, for example, that Manchester United made a call to the agents of Manu Kone from Roma – (he) is one of the players they appreciate. There was a call over the recent days. Let’s see if it’s going to develop.

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“They have more targets at defensive midfielders. But Man United are looking for that kind of player.”

MUFC are clearly determined to make sure they have plenty of quality and depth in midfield, and Kone looks like he could be a good option.

Still, it will be interesting to see what this means for Kobbie Mainoo’s playing time after such impressive form at Old Trafford last season.

The post Fabrizio Romano reveals Manchester United “made a call” to star’s agent over surprise transfer appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Aston Villa join Man United in race for €50m star “having a great World Cup”

14 July 2026 at 17:30

Manu Kone continues to be linked with a move to the Premier League this summer.

The 25-year-old had an impressive season with AS Roma last year, and he has done well in the World Cup with France. Gian Piero Gasperini heaped praise on him recently, claiming he is “having a great World Cup”.

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Man United and Villa eye Manu Kone

Manchester United are interested in securing his signature, and a report from AS Roma Live claims that Aston Villa have now joined the race for him. There have been reports that Roma could sell Kone to balance the books.

The West Midlands club are losing Youri Tielemans to Manchester United and is looking to bring in a replacement. On the other hand, Manchester United need a quality replacement for Casemiro. They need more physicality and defensive steel in the middle of the park.

The French International could be an outstanding acquisition for both clubs. He has the physicality and technical attributes to make an impact in English football, and he could make a big difference for both teams.

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Kone asking price could be an issue

There have been rumours that he could cost around €50 million. It will be interesting to see if either of the two English clubs is willing to pay up. The opportunity to test himself in the Premier League will be exciting for the Frenchman.

Manchester United and Aston Villa will be able to offer him Champions League football next season, and he is likely to be tempted to join either club. It remains to be seen which of the two outfits can get the deal done.

Kone is at the peak of his career and could be a key player for both teams for the foreseeable future. However, the asking price is quite high, and the two English clubs will probably hope to sign him for a more reasonable fee.

The midfielder has shown his quality in Germany and Italy, and he could be an asset in the Premier League as well.

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Man United receive boost in race for World Cup star with club looking to ‘balance the books’

13 July 2026 at 22:35

Manchester United have been linked with a move for the French International midfielder Manu Kone in recent weeks.

The 25-year-old has been outstanding for Roma and has impressed with France at the World Cup. Manchester United are reportedly interested in signing the player, and they have been handed a major boost in their pursuit of the midfielder.

Kone has also been linked with Arsenal.

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Manu Kone to be sold?

AS Roma manager Gian Piero Gasperini has now confirmed that the club will have to comply with Financial Fair Play regulations. He has hinted at a potential sale for the French midfielder.

He said (h/t AllRoma): “His future? I think these Financial Fair Play conditions are never so precise and defined; they vary from team to team. Roma also need to balance the books, which have been burdensome in recent years.

“I hoped that returning to the Champions League would be enough, but it’s clear that financial statements are crucial for clubs. I believe there will be more clarity in the coming weeks.”

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Man United could use Kone

It will be interesting to see if Manchester United come forward with an acceptable offer for the player. They need more physicality and defensive steel in the middle of the park, and Kone could be ideal for them. He has shown his quality in Germany and Italy. He has the technical attributes to do well in the Premier League.

After impressing with Roma, Kone could be tempted to take the next step in his career. Joining one of the biggest clubs in the world will be exciting for him. Manchester United could provide him with the platform to fight for major trophies.

Manchester United have improved the midfield unit with the signing of Andrey Santos, and they are closing in on Youri Tielemans as well. The addition of Kone will take them to a whole new level and complete their midfield unit for the upcoming campaign.

The post Man United receive boost in race for World Cup star with club looking to ‘balance the books’ appeared first on CaughtOffside.

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