Not all Manchester United chiefs are convinced by Manu Kone’s suitability to the squad.

According to The Telegraph, a deal for the AS Roma star does not have ‘universal backing’ at Old Trafford.

Manu Kone: The state of play

It comes after reports that United had finalised an agreement on personal terms with Kone, who is seemingly open to making the switch in the coming weeks.

He is currently on his holidays after reaching the semi-finals of the World Cup with France, after which he’ll report back to Rome to begin his pre-season preparations.

Previously, it’s been claimed that Kone would be keen on testing himself in the Premier League, and being a key part of Michael Carrick’s project and the rebuild at United will certainly be an enticing prospect.

Roma are said to value the Frenchman in the region of £43 million.

As well as Kone: What else are United up to on the market?

The 25-year-old would join Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans, as well as backup goalkeeper Karl Darlow, as United’s first-team summer signings.

From there, it remains to be seen if any other notable acquisitions will be made.

United had been linked with a handful of wingers when it was expected that Marcus Rashford would be sold, but it’s now looking increasingly likely that he is reintegrated into the squad.

Appearances Goals Assists
426 138 79
Rashford’s complete record for United

Barcelona opted against activating his £26m buy option and his £40m release clause expired over a week ago, meaning any new deal would need to be negotiated.

His £325,000-a-week wages pose a deterrent for most suitors, and it’s also why INEOS were favouring a sale over him returning next season.

However, that can only happen if a reasonable offer is made, which has yet to be the case.

Rashford is tied to his boyhood club until June 2028.

Author

  • Isabel, 25, is a football writer who has previously gained experience in the industry as the editor of Stretty News, along with work on Caught Offside, Last Word on Football and Give Me Sport. She is now the editor of UtdReport.