Manchester United are poised to sign one of their top targets next summer, according to an insider citing multiple sources.
The Red Devils are desperate for reinforcements in midfield, with Elliot Anderson and Adam Wharton touted as two priority targets who will not come on the cheap.
In a recent development, reports claim that United have identified former player James Garner as a possible option in the January transfer window.
But a separate article claims that United have essentially secured the services of another player for when the summer window rolls around.
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Manu Kone of Roma has been tracked by United for a considerable period, with United high on the Frenchman and previously earmarking as potential addition in 2026.
United are said to be of the view that Kone is a perfect fit for their system and after reported interest, one journalist claims that he will be heading to Old Trafford in the summer.
The 24-year-old has also been linked with Newcastle, as well as Inter Milan. But according to journalist Francesca Teodor, he will be United-bound next summer.
"It’s not news, but it’s a fairly credible rumour," he said, speaking on ASRomaLive’s Twitch channel.
"I’ve been told by multiple sources that he’ll leave Roma in June and join Manchester United.”
Kone is said to be very much interested in the move but there is even a situation that could see a swap deal between United and Roma - who are keen on the out of favour Joshua Zirkzee.
Zirkzee has been heavily linked with a return to Serie A after failing to secure a starting spot and scoring just eight goals in 60 appearances since joining from Bologna in 2024. Roma are huge admirers of Zirkzee.
"I don’t know if this has anything to do with the Zirkzee deal," Teodor added.
"He might have been included as a sort of counterpart. This remains to be seen, but what’s certain is that Kone is very keen on the destination and it looks like he could join United in June.”
Kone deal could end Mainoo's United career
Kone's arrival would surely spark the end for Kobbie Mainoo, who is struggling for minutes at United under Amorim.
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The England international is understood to be looking for a loan move in January in a bid to make a late push for Thomas Tuchel's England World Cup squad, with Napoli showing interest.
Mainoo's former teammates Scott McTominay and Rasmus Hojlund are both playing for the Italian champions.
Mainoo has played less than 300 minutes across all competitions during the current campaign but despite not getting a look-in, Amorim still thinks he can be a big player for his boyhood club.
"He is going is going to be the future of Manchester United," Amorim said ahead of United's visit of Newcastle on Boxing Day.
"That is my feeling. He just needs to wait for his chance. In football, everything can change in two days."
Topics: Manchester United, Ruben Amorim
Josh Lawless