Liverpool prepared to hijack Man Utd transfer in huge blow to Michael Carrick

Liverpool are looking to hijack another Premier League's transfer business, with reports that they are looking to sign one of Manchester United's top targets.

The Reds, who are preparing for the 2026/27 season under new boss Andoni Iraola, pipped Newcastle to Osasuna Winger Victor Munoz.

They also have promising defender Jeremy Jacquet coming in after a £60 million deal with Lille was agreed back in February.

But a priority area for Liverpool is in central midfield after recent struggles in the position.

And according to The Kopite View, via TEAMtalk, they have reignited interest in a player who has been extremely impressive in the World Cup.

Reports state that they are in for France's Manu Kone, a player they have admired for a number of years.

With Aurelien Tchouameni struggling with injury, Kone has been thrown into the deep end in his first World Cup but has produced multiple strong performances in the middle of the park.

The 24-year-old has made four starts in the tournament for Les Bleus, who take on Spain in the semi-finals in Arlington, Texas on Tuesday.

READ MORE: Five Liverpool players 'blocked' from returning for first day of pre-season under Andoni Iraola

Kone is rapidly growing into one of the best holding midfielders around and is being courted by United, who desperately need a new recruit in the position following Casemiro's exit.

United identified Atalanta midfielder Ederson as their first-choice candidate but walked away from the £35 million deal after learning of an underlying knee issue.

They could shop elsewhere in Serie A with Roma, a younger alternative.

But with his qualities, he could also be a fine fit Liverpool as part of Iraola's rebuild.

It's claimed that Kone, who still has three years on his contract, could be available for around £47 million.

Kone has formed an impressive partnership with Adrien Rabiot in midfield, bringing a balance and allowing the likes of Michael Olise, Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele and Desire Doue to do their thing.

Liverpool and Man United target set to be overlooked in World Cup clash

Speaking on their influence, Didier Deschamps said: “They're important in winning the ball back, especially when we press high up the pitch, and also in supplying our attacking players with the right service.”

Despite his contributions, L'Equipe are reporting that Kone is not expected to get the nod for the semi-final on Tuesday.

The French outlet claims that Real midfielder Tchouameni has recovered from his muscle problems and will be back in the starting XI.

The Real Madrid man did not feature in the 1-0 round of 16 win with Paraugay or the quarter final victory over Morocco on Thursday.

"Even though Manu Koné delivered a solid performance against Morocco," L'Equipe wrote.

"Tchouaméni's status and importance to the team's balance guarantee him a starting place, while Adrien Rabiot has been in excellent form since the start of the World Cup and is expected to continue his run of form.

Kone began his career with Toulouse in France before joining Borussia Monchengladbach and making 86 appearances.

He made his name at Roma, where he has played 82 times across two seasons.

Kone made his France debut in September 2024 and has played 18 times for his country.