Liverpool plan double Man Utd transfer hijack in boldest move of the summer window
Liverpool and Manchester United will go head-to-head in a battle to sign two midfielders this summer, according to reports, as they look to rebuild ahead of the 2026-27 campaign.
It is expected to be a busy window for both teams. Liverpool have already welcomed two new arrivals, Victor Munoz and Jeremy Jacquet, on Merseyside in recent weeks but Andoni Iraola wants more additions.
"Obviously, we have signed two players already but we need more players," said Iraola in his first press conference as Liverpool head coach. "We know this. The club is working on this."
Manchester United, meanwhile, announced the signing of Andrey Santos from Chelsea on Monday afternoon in a deal worth a reported £48million plus £2million in add-ons.
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The arrival of Santos came just hours after it was claimed that United are 'set to finalise' a deal to sign Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa for his release clause, which is believed to be £35million.
And the club could move for a third midfielder this summer as they look to replace Casemiro and the injured Manuel Ugarte, who is facing up to a year out after suffering knee ligament damage at the World Cup.
Last week, it emerged that United had reignited their interest in Wolves midfielder Joao Gomes, whose €45 million (£38.3m) move to Atletico Madrid collapsed at the last minute.
Brazilian outlet Globo claim the Reds have 'signalled' their interest in Gomes after 'giving up' on Ederson following medical examinations.
In fact, United have already contacted Wolves to inquire about 'pricing and business models' but they are expected to face competition from Liverpool, with Iraola's side also reaching out about a possible deal.
Manchester United and Liverpool could do battle for Manu Kone signing
Another midfielder that continues to attract interest is Roma's Manu Kone, who has been superb for Didier Deschamps' France at the World Cup.
Earlier this month, a report from TEAMtalk claimed United were plotting a move for the 25-year-old after they were informed that he would like to test himself in the Premier League.
However, Liverpool are in pole position to sign Kone, according to The Kopite View, who suggest Liverpool’s interest is currently more advanced than United.
Speaking to Rai Radio Uno about Kone's future, Roma manager Gian Piero Gasperini hinted that the club may be prepared to sell the France international this summer.
“His future? I think these Financial Fair Play conditions are never so precise and defined; they vary from team to team. Roma also need to balance the books, which have been burdensome in recent years," he said.
“I hoped that returning to the Champions League would be enough, but it’s clear that financial statements are crucial for clubs. I believe there will be more clarity in the coming weeks.”
Jack Kenmare