Manchester United has opened initial talks for French midfielder Manu Kone, a player linked to Liverpool, as the Premier League transfer window heats up, according to reports.
The 25-year-old, who impressed for France at the World Cup, is now a target for multiple Premier League clubs, with Liverpool and Manchester United among the contenders.
The report, published by L’Equipe and cited by Liverpool, states that Manchester United has opened initial talks for the French midfielder, though discussions are yet to reach a crucial stage. The report explicitly names Arsenal as a team targeting a move for Kone, while Liverpool continues to be linked as a destination. Kone, who made five appearances for France during their World Cup campaign, is seen as a potential bargain in a midfield market inflated by recent high-profile moves.
A Race for Kone: Liverpool and United Compete
Kone’s contract with AS Roma expires in 2029, with three years remaining on his deal, according to the report. However, a $68 million fee could expedite his departure, as teams swarm a transfer opportunity to land him from AS Roma. The French star’s future has been questioned throughout the tournament, as teams look for potential bargains in a midfield market that has been inflated by deals such as Elliot Anderson’s move to Manchester City and the duo of Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes to Tottenham.
Kone would like a decision to be made over his future in a swift manner, potentially putting pressure on other clubs to make a move before it is too late, the report added. Liverpool, meanwhile, is exploring options to bolster its midfield and right-wing areas, with Bradley Barcola and Ferran Torres also under consideration. The Reds are prioritizing a replacement for Mohamed Salah on the right wing, though a midfielder remains a secondary focus.
The race for Kone has become a high-stakes battle between Liverpool and Manchester United, with both clubs vying to secure the AS Roma midfielder. Liverpool reported that United has taken the lead in the talks, though discussions remain in their early stages. The midfielder’s value has risen amid a competitive transfer landscape, with teams like Arsenal also monitoring his situation.
World Cup Impact and Market Dynamics
Kone’s performances at the World Cup, where France finished fourth, have drawn attention from top clubs. The midfielder’s potential move could offer a more affordable alternative, though his $68 million price tag places him in the upper echelon of mid-market signings.
The transfer market has seen significant activity this summer, with deals like Elliot Anderson’s move to Manchester City and Sandro Tonali’s transfer to Tottenham setting new benchmarks. Kone’s performances for France have made him a sought-after asset, with Liverpool and Manchester United both seeking to capitalize on his rising profile.
Manchester United’s Pre-Season Schedule
Manchester United kicked off their pre-season campaign on Saturday, as they took on Championship side Wrexham in Helsinki, Finland. Michael Carrick’s side fell to a 1-0 defeat thanks to Sam Smith’s first-half goal, with players all getting 45 minutes of game time. United are back in friendly action later this week, with the following schedule:
- Friday, 24 July (5pm) Vs Rosenborg
- Saturday, 1 August (2pm) Vs Atletico Madrid
- Saturday, 8 August (4pm) Vs PSG
- Wednesday, 12 August (7.30pm) Vs Leeds
- Saturday, 15 August Vs AC Milan
The pre-season matches will serve as a key preparation phase for United ahead of the 2026/27 Premier League season, with Carrick aiming to assess player fitness and tactical cohesion.
Liverpool’s Broader Strategy
While the Kone saga unfolds, Liverpool is also evaluating other targets to strengthen its squad. The club is considering a right-sided defender if financial resources allow, alongside a potential midfield addition. Liverpool emphasized that securing a winger to replace Salah remains the top priority, with Barcola and Torres as leading candidates.
The Reds’ approach reflects a cautious strategy ahead of Andoni Iraola’s first season in charge. With the transfer window set to intensify, Liverpool’s ability to act decisively on key targets will be critical. Meanwhile, Manchester United’s involvement in the Kone race underscores their ambition to rebuild under new management.
The next few weeks will determine Kone’s future, with clubs weighing their options amid rising demand. Liverpool has yet to confirm its stance, but the pressure to resolve the situation quickly is mounting. For Manchester United, securing Kone could signal a shift in their transfer strategy, prioritizing mid-market signings over blockbuster deals.
As the summer progresses, the competition for top talent will only grow fiercer. Kone’s decision, coupled with Liverpool’s broader plans, will shape the dynamics of the Premier League’s transfer race. Clubs will need to act swiftly to capitalize on opportunities in a market where timing often dictates outcomes.
Sources: Liverpool, Manchester Evening News.
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