Story perspectives

Man United Seal £96m Deal for Roma Midfielder Kone

7/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

Manchester United have reportedly agreed a fee of £51 million (€60 million, $68.5 million) plus £45 million structured to sign French midfielder Manu Kone from Roma.
United see Kone as a defensive-minded option for their third midfield slot.
Roma manager Gian Piero Gasperini said the club will let Kone leave to balance the books.
Director of football Jason Wilcox is weighing Kone against targets such as Sander Berge while Chelsea’s reported interest could affect United’s pursuit.

History

Historical Context

In July 2009 Manchester United sold Cristiano Ronaldo to Real Madrid for the then-world-record £80 million, the highest fee in European football at the time. United’s current pursuit of French midfielder Manu Kone from Roma reflects the club’s continued reliance on high-value signings, a pattern that began with the 2009 record deal.

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Story summary

Manchester United have reportedly agreed a fee of £51 million (€60 million, $68.5 million) plus £45 million structured to sign French midfielder Manu Kone from Roma.
United see Kone as a defensive-minded option for their third midfield slot.
Roma manager Gian Piero Gasperini said the club will let Kone leave to balance the books.
Director of football Jason Wilcox is weighing Kone against targets such as Sander Berge while Chelsea’s reported interest could affect United’s pursuit.

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