Manchester United open talks with Roma for €60m-rated Manu Koné

Manchester United have opened formal negotiations with Roma over France international midfielder Manu Koné, with the Serie A club demanding €60m for his transfer, according to [L'Equipe via Football Italia](https://football-italia.net/kone-talks-begin-manchester-united-and-roma/).

The 25-year-old has emerged as one of the most sought-after midfielders in Europe following a standout 2026 World Cup campaign, where he displaced Aurelien Tchouameni from France's starting XI and was sorely missed when left out of the semi-final defeat to Spain. His performances in the tournament have driven his valuation up from the €50m Roma were asking earlier in the window.

United have moved ahead of Premier League rivals Arsenal in the race for Koné's signature, with the club having shifted their focus from Atalanta's Ederson after pulling out of a €45m deal. Italian media sources suggest the decision was less about the Brazilian's failed medical and more about the club redirecting their resources toward the Frenchman.

Roma, despite having secured Champions League qualification for the upcoming season, face pressure to raise funds through player sales, and Koné has long been considered the most likely candidate to command a significant fee. Two other English top-flight clubs are also monitoring the situation, with Liverpool believed to be among them.

The coming days will be crucial as Manchester United look to convert their early lead into a formal agreement, while Roma hold out for the full €60m asking price — a figure that reflects Koné's rise from promising talent to world-class performer on the biggest stage.

Sources

• Football Italia