Carrick’s hunt for a defensive midfielder: United eye Roma’s Manu Kone

Manchester United have identified Roma’s 25‑year‑old midfielder Manu Kone as a potential summer signing, a move highlighted by Fabrizio Romano in a recent YouTube segment, where he noted United’s interest in a defensive midfielder after recent quick signings and that Kone logged two goals and three assists in 37 appearances last season.

Romano said United are now targeting a defensive midfielder, with Manu Koné as one name on their shortlist – they have had positive phone contact with his agents and maintain an excellent relationship, though no formal bid or approach to Roma has been made yet.

He added that reports of €80m – €90m prices are exaggerated; the player is expensive but not at that level, and United are taking time to evaluate options after their recent quick signings before deciding which defensive midfielder to sign.

Kone enjoyed a decent run of form in Serie A, scoring two times and providing three assists across 37 matches for Roma last season, and is currently regarded as one of the best central midfielders in the Italian league.

His current contract with Roma runs until 2029, which would make it difficult for Manchester United to secure him cheaply this off‑season.

Carrick should consider getting him on board soon, as Kone is a solid tackler, good passer and can operate as a box‑to‑box or defensive midfielder, though there are question marks over whether he can adapt to the physicality and intensity of the Premier League.

United have yet to make a formal bid, and the club remains to decide who will fill the midfield gap; the next steps involve further negotiations with his agents and a final assessment of whether Kone can meet the demands of Old Trafford.