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By Barnaby Lane
Posted on 15 July 2025, 18:23
Manchester United make contact with agents of "box-to-box" midfielder who scored against Red Devils last season - Manchester United
Manchester United beat Lyon in last season's Europa League. (REUTERS)
Manchester United are at a crossroads. After a dismal 2024/25 campaign that saw them finish a shocking 15th in the Premier League and fall short in the Europa League final, major changes are expected at Old Trafford.
The mood around the club has been grim, and new manager Rúben Amorim has been tasked with nothing short of a rebuild — both in spirit and squad.
The summer transfer window offers United a crucial opportunity to reset. So far, only Wolves striker Matheus Cunha has been brought in, despite the club being linked with dozens of names across Europe — from Moise Kean to Bryan Mbeumo. Fans are waiting for signs of a clear plan, and Amorim knows that smart, impactful recruitment will be key to turning things around.
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One name now gaining traction is that of a proven winner: Corentin Tolisso, the French international and 2018 World Cup champion. He may not be the flashiest target, but he brings experience, versatility, and — crucially — interest in a move to Manchester.
United Make Contact About Tolisso
Corentin Tolisso. (REUTERS/Gonzalo Fuentes)
Corentin Tolisso. (REUTERS/Gonzalo Fuentes)
According to L’Équipe, Manchester United have made initial contact with the representatives of Corentin Tolisso, with the Lyon midfielder open to a move to Old Trafford. The French outlet reports that United have reached out to his “entourage” as they explore midfield reinforcements.
Tolisso — described as a “box-to-box” midfielder — is not actively pushing to leave Lyon but is open to joining a “prestigious” club. He has already turned down offers from the Turkish Super Lig, signalling a preference for higher-level competition.
While United are interested, they must now open talks with Lyon. The Ligue 1 side, who recently had their relegation to Ligue 2 overturned following an appeal, are reluctant to sell and value the 30-year-old at around £8.7 million.
Lyon see Tolisso as an important figure in their plans for the upcoming campaign.
Whether United fans would be thrilled by the move is up for debate. At 30, Tolisso — who notably scored (and then was sent off) against the Red Devils in their wild 7–6 aggregate Europa League win over Lyon last season — doesn’t exactly fit the mould of the young, dynamic profile many supporters are hoping for.
Still, with a World Cup and Champions League pedigree, he brings a wealth of experience that could prove invaluable — if he can stay fit and rediscover something close to his best form.
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