Manchester United lead Arsenal in pursuit of French midfielder Manu Kone
United’s pursuit of Kone
Manchester United are reportedly leading Arsenal in the race to sign French midfielder Manu Kone. The 25-year-old has emerged as a key target for the Old Trafford club, with reports indicating he is open to a move to the north of England. United are said to be ahead of their Premier League rivals in negotiations for the midfielder.
Kone is reportedly seeking a move to a prominent European club, with the allure of the Premier League being a significant factor in his decision-making. He views England as his preferred destination, despite interest from clubs like Inter Milan. The financial strength and prestige of the English top flight are believed to be influential in his consideration.
While United are keen on Kone, they are reportedly taking a measured approach to the deal, assessing the potential operation and aiming to avoid overpaying for the French international. Kone is prominently featured on United’s shortlist of midfield targets, and he would reportedly welcome a move to the north-west of England. He is said to prefer a swift resolution to his future.
United have already made several signings this summer, including Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans. Goalkeeper Karl Darlow also joined on a free transfer, and Tynan Thompson arrived from Tottenham Hotspur. However, the club is still looking to bolster its midfield options.
Competition and other targets
Despite United’s apparent lead, Arsenal remain interested in Kone, having been linked with him for several months. Two other unnamed Premier League clubs have also expressed interest in the Frenchman, highlighting his increased profile after representing France in the World Cup semi-finals.
Kone’s time in Serie A with Roma saw him make 82 appearances. Roma finished third in the league, accumulating 73 points. The club is reportedly prepared to consider offers for Kone to generate funds for squad reshaping, especially with their return to the Champions League.
Chelsea have also reportedly made enquiries to Roma regarding Kone’s availability. Sources indicate that Chelsea’s recruitment team is considering several candidates, with Kone being among those discussed internally. The strong working relationship between Chelsea and Roma, stemming from ongoing negotiations for other players, is believed to have facilitated these conversations.
United’s manager, Michael Carrick, is reportedly pushing for more midfield additions. Besides Kone, other players linked as potential targets include Alex Scott and Ayyoub Bouaddi. The club has also been linked with Ismalia Sarr, particularly if Marcus Rashford were to depart. Bournemouth is planning to resume contract talks with Alex Scott in September, following earlier negotiations that broke down.
In other transfer news, Borussia Dortmund is reportedly in negotiations with Genk for 18-year-old midfielder Kosta Karetsa, potentially as a long-term replacement for Felix Nmecha. Chelsea are also reportedly advancing their pursuit of Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace, with the Eagles reportedly seeking £60 million for the defender.
Newcastle United captain Bruno Guimaraes is of interest to Arsenal, though there is a reported gap in valuation between the clubs. Arsenal may consider Kone as an alternative, believing he could offer better value and a less challenging acquisition. United’s pre-season campaign has already begun, with a 1-0 defeat to Wrexham in Helsinki, Finland, on Saturday.
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Source: goal.com
