Manchester United are preparing to submit a formal bid for Roma midfielder Manu Kone in the coming days, according to reports, as Michael Carrick continues his summer overhaul of the squad. The Red Devils have already secured the signings of Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans, and view Kone as the final piece of their midfield rebuild.
Chelsea are also interested in the France international, with discussions reportedly taking place between the London club and Roma, potentially involving Alejandro Garnacho moving in the opposite direction. However, Kone’s representatives have indicated his willingness to join United, providing a boost to Carrick’s pursuit. Transfer insider Graeme Bailey estimates that it will take around £51 million to secure Kone’s services.
Meanwhile, the future of Marcus Rashford at Old Trafford has become clearer. Journalist David Ornstein confirmed that a £40 million release clause in Rashford’s contract has expired for all clubs except Liverpool and Manchester City. Fabrizio Romano has stated that it would require a bid from a ‘top club’ to convince United to part ways with the England forward. Fenerbahce have been linked with a move, but Romano dismissed those claims, stating Rashford has no plans to move to Turkey.
Rangers midfielder Nico Raskin has also emerged as a potential alternative for United, with director of football Jason Wilcox reportedly an admirer. Raskin has expressed his desire to leave Ibrox, and while Atalanta previously showed interest, Rangers are now seeking a fee of around £25.5 million for the Belgian maestro. United are continuing to explore options as they seek to finalize their summer transfer business.
The potential arrival of Kone would further strengthen United’s midfield options, addressing a key area of the pitch identified for improvement. Rashford’s likely stay could provide a significant boost to United’s attacking options, offering Carrick a familiar and proven goalscorer.
