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Manu Kone: Why Manchester United’s pursuit could disrupt Aston Villa’s midfield ambitions
Sameer Bhatia | July 14, 2026 8:16 PM CST

Manchester United surprised many earlier this week by finalising the signing of Youri Tielemans.

The Belgian midfielder was arguably his nation’s top performer at the World Cup. The 29-year-old also enjoyed an impressive season with Aston Villa, playing a vital role in ending the club’s 44-year wait for a European trophy.

Reports suggest that Aston Villa had no plans to part with Tielemans, but Manchester United activated his release clause, valued at approximately £35 million.

Youri Tielemans is said to have completed his medical tests and is expected to officially sign his contract with Manchester United today. The deal will reportedly run until June 2031, making him the club’s second midfield addition after Andrey Santos.

According to information from ASRomaLive.it, Manchester United are not planning to stop strengthening their midfield even after these two arrivals.

The Italian outlet reports that the Premier League giants are still considering a move for Manu Kone, who has been one of France’s standout players at the World Cup. The Red Devils are believed to have already made initial enquiries about the French midfielder.

Meanwhile, Aston Villa have also joined the race for Kone following Amadou Onana’s serious injury during the World Cup.

It is understood that Villa have taken concrete steps to assess Kone’s situation and to determine Roma’s asking price. The Serie A club reportedly will not consider selling the 25-year-old for less than €60 million (£51.2 million).

“A real auction is about to break out in the Premier League for the French midfielder,” the report adds.

Sources indicate that Atletico Madrid previously attempted to sign Kone before the World Cup, but he rejected their offer, preferring to wait for an opportunity to move to the Premier League—a decision that now appears to have paid off.

Earlier this year, The Peoples Person reported that Kone is “very keen” to secure a transfer to Old Trafford.

Kone’s profile as a combative, physically dominant midfielder who covers ground efficiently makes him an ideal fit for Manchester United, who are said to be looking for “somebody with legs” in the centre of the pitch.

Featured image: Paolo Bruno via Getty Images


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