Roma boss signals Manu Kone decision in weeks as United close in on third midfield signing

AS Roma manager Gian Piero Gasperini has indicated that clarity on Manu Kone’s future will arrive within weeks, opening the door for Manchester United to pursue the France midfielder as their third major midfield signing of the summer.

United have already committed around £85m to the department, with Youri Tielemans in the final stages of completing a move from Aston Villa and Andrey Santos’ switch from Chelsea now confirmed. The club pulled out of the race for Mateus Fernandes — who subsequently joined Tottenham — before pivoting to those two deals.

Speaking to Rai Radio Uno, Gasperini acknowledged that Roma’s financial pressures could force a sale of the 25-year-old. “Roma also need to balance the books, which have been burdensome in recent years,” he said. “I hoped that returning to the Champions League would be enough, but it’s clear that financial statements are crucial for clubs. I believe there will be more clarity in the coming weeks.”

Kone has been one of the standout performers at the World Cup, earning a starting berth for France ahead of Aurélien Tchouaméni — who has since signed a new Real Madrid contract — after the latter picked up an injury. Gasperini noted the midfielder’s progress: “Last year he hadn’t played for France yet, and he managed to earn a starting spot, which shows his true worth.”

Kone is currently preparing for France’s semi-final against Spain, with Tchouaméni potentially returning to the starting XI as he recovers from injury.

Despite the financial pressure on Roma, the Italian club are still holding out for a premium fee of €55m (£47m) for a player who has three years remaining on his contract. A successful deal would push United’s midfield spending into nine figures across the summer window.

Arsenal had also been linked with Kone, but their focus appears to have shifted toward Newcastle captain Bruno Guimarães. Manchester City, meanwhile, are reported to lead the chase for Lille teenager Ayyoub Bouaddi.