Manchester United could submit an offer for Roma midfielder Manu Koné this week as Michael Carrick looks to complete his midfield rebuild.
United have already spent more than £80m on Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans, while goalkeeper Karl Darlow has also arrived at Old Trafford.
However, Manuel Ugarte’s serious knee injury has increased the need for another midfielder who can offer defensive coverage and athleticism.
According to the Manchester Evening News, reports in Italy suggest an offer for Koné could arrive this week.
Roma are believed to want more than €50m, worth approximately £42.5m, before allowing the France international to leave.
Koné ready to explore Premier League move
Koné reportedly asked his representatives to delay transfer discussions until France’s World Cup campaign had ended.
The 25-year-old made five appearances during the tournament, including 45 minutes against Spain in the semi-final. France then lost 6-4 to England in the third-place play-off.
With his international commitments complete, Koné is now expected to consider his options.
ReadManUtd previously reported that United could launch an offer once Koné’s World Cup campaign ended. Chelsea and Liverpool have also been linked with the Roma midfielder.
Koné would add powerful ball-carrying, physical strength and the ability to cover large areas. Those qualities would give Carrick a different option alongside Santos and Tielemans.
United have not submitted a confirmed bid, while Roma have little reason to accept an offer below their valuation.
Radek Vítek could meanwhile leave Old Trafford before the window closes. The goalkeeper has made clear that he wants regular first-team football after impressing on loan at Bristol City.
United’s immediate focus, however, appears to be Koné. An offer this week would move Carrick closer to completing a major overhaul of his midfield.
