Man Utd news: Fee ‘agreed’ for France star as transfer target leaves training camp for medical

Manchester United’s summer rebuild has lurched forward after two midfield signings in the space of days, with another major target now closing in on a move to Old Trafford. The club’s pursuit of Roma’s Manu Kone has reached a critical stage, with a reported £45million fee agreed and the France international set to complete a medical in the coming days. The developments follow the arrivals of Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos, but Michael Carrick’s side is still hunting for a defensive-minded midfield operator to shore up the engine room.

Kone deal edges closer as United plot midfield overhaul

United’s interest in Kone has intensified after his standout World Cup performances, with Rio Ferdinand revealing a £45million agreement with Roma. The ex-England defender confirmed on his official YouTube channel that Fabrizio Romano had verified the fee, though Romano himself had previously stopped short of confirming an inter-club deal. The development comes just days after United completed the £50million capture of Santos from Chelsea, while Tielemans returned from World Cup duty to bolster the ranks.

Kone’s arrival would address a clear need in Carrick’s reshaping of the squad. Casemiro’s departure left a void in defensive midfield, and while Santos can operate in that role, his profile doesn’t fully match the profile United are targeting. The reported structure of the Kone deal suggests United are prioritising a player who can dictate tempo from deep, a profile that aligns with their pressing system under the new manager. His ability to progress the ball under pressure and cover ground in midfield would provide a significant upgrade over the outgoing Brazilian.

Squad overhaul gathers pace amid pre-season preparations

The club’s transfer activity has accelerated in recent days, with Tielemans and Santos joining within a week. Tielemans, who returned from World Cup duty, is already in the squad, while Santos’s move from Chelsea was finalised at £50million. Kone’s imminent arrival would cap a remarkable few days for United, who are also expected to add another midfield option before the pre-season tour.

Carrick’s focus appears to be on reinforcing the midfield, with reports suggesting he wants a player who can provide both defensive cover and progressive passing. The collapse of Ederson’s move from Atalanta earlier in the window left United without a direct replacement for Casemiro, but Kone’s arrival could resolve that issue. The club’s willingness to pay a premium fee for a player of his profile underscores their urgency in addressing the position. His €55million release clause suggests Roma were prepared to meet United’s valuation, indicating the Frenchman’s importance to their own project.

What comes next for United’s summer?

With Kone’s medical reportedly scheduled for this week, United are on the brink of another major signing. The club’s transfer activity has been rapid, but Carrick’s work is far from over. Reports suggest he remains keen to add another midfield technician, with the squad still needing depth in multiple areas. The pre-season tour looms, and the new arrivals will need to integrate quickly if United are to start the season strongly.

Kone’s potential arrival also raises questions about the futures of other midfielders. Scott McTominay’s role could come under scrutiny if United add two new starters in the position, while the likes of Kobbie Mainoo may need to fight for minutes. Mainoo’s omission from England’s World Cup squad under Thomas Tuchel has already sparked debate, and his pathway at United may depend on how the new signings perform. The youngster’s development has been a key narrative this season, and his integration into Carrick’s plans will be crucial.

United’s summer has taken a decisive turn, but the window is not yet closed. Carrick’s project is taking shape, with three midfield additions in less than a fortnight, but the next few weeks will determine whether the club can build a squad capable of competing at the top of the Premier League. The addition of Kone would represent a statement of intent, but the true test will come when competitive football resumes.

Related coverage

Kobbie Mainoo: England boss Thomas Tuchel was unimpressed by unused Manchester United midfielder during World Cup training – Paper Talk – Sky Sports · Manchester United’s £10m windfall as Mason Greenwood joins Fenerbahce – The Telegraph