Manchester United have approached the representatives of AS Roma midfielder Manu Koné regarding a potential transfer to Old Trafford this summer.
Transfer insider Fabrizio Romano has confirmed the approach, reporting that United have made direct contact with Koné’s agents over recent days.
Romano revealed the club are actively searching for defensive midfielders, stating: “Man United are not done. Man United will sign, and wants to sign, one more midfielder.”
He continued: “So Manchester United are looking at defensive midfielders, physical players. So we have to see which kind of options they will have on the shortlist.”
Romano added: “But for sure, Manchester United are still looking at midfielders, many, many names among the defensive midfielders.”
The Italian journalist then specifically named Koné as one of the players United have made contact about, saying: “I can tell you, for example, that Manchester United made a call to the agents of Manu Koné from Roma.”
Romano added: “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.”
According to Romano, United have also discussed signing the French midfielder internally, with Michael Carrick’s side treating him as a genuine target this summer.
The move comes after United have already made significant midfield additions this summer, having agreed deals to sign Andrey Santos from Chelsea and Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa.
Koné impressed on the international stage during the World Cup, though France suffered a disappointing 2-0 defeat to Spain in the semi-finals, with the midfielder notably absent from the starting lineup.
The 23-year-old is contracted to Roma until 2029, meaning the Italian club will hold strong leverage in any transfer negotiations this summer.
United would likely need to meet Roma’s asking price, with Koné’s Transfermarkt valuation standing at around £42 million following his strong individual World Cup performances.
With several other names on their defensive midfield shortlist, it remains to be seen whether United’s initial contact with Koné’s camp develops into a concrete and formal transfer bid.