Chelsea are reported to have held “initial talks” with Roma over a move for France World Cup midfielder Manu Kone, with Manchester United also seeking midfield reinforcements. Kone, 25, has been linked with multiple top European clubs following the World Cup, where he plays in five of France’s seven matches, including their semi-final against Spain. Italian outlet Corriere della Sera reports that Chelsea’s representatives have already started discussions regarding a potential transfer.
Manchester United have reportedly opened talks with Kone’s representatives as part of a midfield revamp following Casemiro’s departure and an injury suffered by Manuel Ugarte. United have already signed Andrey Santos from Chelsea and Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa, and they are looking to add another midfielder.
Chelsea’s interest is tied to plans under new head coach Xabi Alonso, while they also monitor other midfield and squad issues, including Enzo Fernandez’s reported openness to a move. Roma are understood to value Kone at around €60 million (about £51 million).
