Even after Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos, Manchester United are still in the market for another central midfielder and that makes Manu Kone one to watch.
The Frenchman enjoyed an impressive World Cup with France, before they crashed out against Spain at the semi-final stage. Interestingly enough, Kone was benched for that game before coming on at half-time in a move which highlighted some regret from Didier Deschamps.
To no surprise, that decision did nothing to decrease the interest in the AS Roma, who looks destined to leave Italy this summer.
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Football FanCast’s Verdict |
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Credibility |
Now that France’s World Cup campaign is over, it’s all eyes on Kone. The midfielder has already held talks with Manchester United and his camp has informed Jason Wilcox that Old Trafford has a huge appeal for their client. Now a ‘serious’ target for the Red Devils, a move could work for all parties. |
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Finances |
In a midfield market full of absurd prices, Man United have done well to welcome Tielemans and Santos for less than £100m combined. Now, they could land another cheap deal for Kone. Roma have reportedly set their asking price at around £51m and that is a bargain deal in the current market. |
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Insight |
Kone’s best work comes out of possession. The Frenchman won 18 duels and made 25 recoveries at the World Cup, ranking inside the top 75% in both departments. Crucially, however, that’s far from his limit. He also excels in possession and maintained a 92% pass accuracy at the World Cup. |
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Impact |
It would be another genius move from INEOS, who could yet rebuild their entire midfield for less than £150m. In the same summer that they were quoted over £100m to sign Elliot Anderson, adding three stars for a similar price would leave Old Trafford chiefs in dreamland. |
Kone is experienced on the top stage, available at a bargain price and keen on a move to Old Trafford. Man United have got the perfect chance to swoop in.
Kone desperate for Man United move
As reported by TeamTalk’s Graeme Bailey, Kone is now desperate to join Man United after holding direct talks with Old Trafford chief Jason Wilcox.
His representatives have told the Red Devils that a move is of ‘huge appeal’ and he’s now a ‘serious’ target.
“There will be a lot of satisfaction at United if they furnish Michael Carrick with three top new midfield signings for a combined fee of £135m, given the crazy prices floating around this summer. I am told United is a huge appeal to Kone, and his camp have made that known to Jason Wilcox et al.” – Bailey
Available for just £51m, Kone could yet become the final piece to the puzzle as Man United look to complete their midfield rebuild.
Man Utd learn Lewis Hall’s exit demand
Even after Kone, Man United still have other targets in mind. Away from midfield, they’ve been handed a boost in pursuit of Newcastle United’s Lewis Hall. The left-back is reportedly threatening to leave St James’ Park unless he receives consistent starts under Eddie Howe.
The Red Devils have been searching for a long-term left-back alongside midfielders this summer and a deal for Hall is one that’s on their radar.
If the Englishman is to become the latest name to leave Newcastle, then United will no doubt be on high alert.
