Manchester United are preparing a bid for AS Roma midfielder Manu Kone following the breakdown of their agreement to sign Ederson Silva from Atalanta, according to reports. The move comes after concerns arose during the second part of Ederson’s medical, with sources indicating a potential long-term knee problem.
While United initially maintained the deal for Ederson was still possible, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has confirmed the club has pulled out of the transfer. Sources close to Atalanta have yet to receive official confirmation regarding the status of the deal, but indications point to its collapse.
With the Ederson transfer falling through, United are now focusing their attention on Kone, with SportMediaSet reporting that the club is ready to submit a €50 million (£42.6m, $57m) offer for the France international. Kone has impressed during his appearances for France at the ongoing 2026 World Cup, bolstering his appeal to the Premier League side.
United are reportedly seeking to add two midfielders to their squad this summer. In addition to Kone, the club has also made contact with Wolves midfielder Joao Gomes, according to Graeme Bailey. This interest emerged after Atletico Madrid withdrew their pursuit of Gomes due to complications surrounding the potential transfer of Bernardo Silva to Real Madrid.
Further midfield options are also being explored, with United reportedly showing interest in San Lorenzo goalkeeper Orlando Gill. The 26-year-old Paraguay international has reportedly attracted attention from Aston Villa and Ipswich Town, with a release clause of £5.2million in his current contract. Gill himself has acknowledged the interest from United, stating that discussions are ongoing to determine the best course of action.
The shift in focus towards Kone and Gomes signifies United’s determination to strengthen their midfield options ahead of the new season, despite the setback with Ederson Silva.
