Roma have raised their valuation for Manchester United target Manu Kone after his sublime performances for France at the World Cup, according to Corriere dello Sport.
The Red Devils have been active during the early phase of the summer transfer window, and they have already announced the signing of midfielder Andrey Santos.
The club are also close to landing the signature of Aston Villa ace Youri Tielemans. The Red Devils have decided to trigger the £35 million release clause in the Belgian’s contract.
Tielemans will bring some much-needed experience in the heart of the midfield, and it appears United could pursue another marquee solution over the coming days.
Corriere dello Sport claim that United hold a keen interest in landing the signature of Kone, but the Frenchman won’t come on the cheap after his dazzling displays at the World Cup.
Roma have already turned down a £34 million offer from Atletico for Kone. They have now set a non-negotiable price of £51m. The same has been conveyed to suitors, including United.
Kone could emerge as the third midfield signing
The former Borussia Monchengladbach man has been a key player for the Giallorossi. He played an instrumental role last season as they qualified for the Champions League after a seven-year gap.
Despite this, they find themselves in a difficult financial situation. They need to balance their books before the new UEFA Financial Fair Play deadline on July 31. Kone is one of many players up for sale.
As things stand, Matias Soule looks the likeliest candidate to depart, but Kone could likewise do so, particularly after standing out for Les Bleus during the ongoing World Cup in North America.
Kone has benefited from Aurelien Tchouameni’s injury absence. He has won 93 percent of his passes, while winning four duels and two tackles per game. He has also made five recoveries on average.
Santos and Tielemans are midfielders who like to break defensive lines with intrinsic passes, but United still need a physically imposing presence who can dominate proceedings in aerial battles.
Kone would be an ideal signing for the Red Devils. His price tag has risen to £51m, but it does not seem overly excessive for a player in his prime at 25 and has been brilliant at the World Cup.
It remains to be seen whether United proceed to make a formal offer for the Frenchman or opt for someone with Premier League experience such as Carlos Baleba or Bruno Guimaraes.
Stats from Sofascore