Manchester United are reportedly considering an ambitious transfer strategy that could see academy graduate Marcus Rashford used as part of a deal to sign highly rated AS Roma midfielder Manu Koné. With the Premier League giants determined to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season, the French international has emerged as one of the club’s priority midfield targets.
Roma are believed to value the 24 year old midfielder at around €60 million, a figure that has prompted United’s recruitment team to explore creative options that could reduce the overall transfer cost. One proposal under discussion involves Rashford, although any agreement would require significant financial compromises due to the England forward’s substantial salary.
The move reflects Manchester United’s determination to reshape their squad after an inconsistent campaign. Club executives are working to build a more balanced team capable of challenging for major honours, with strengthening the midfield identified as one of the top priorities during the current transfer window.
According to reports from Italy, Roma are facing financial pressures linked to Financial Fair Play regulations. Selling one of their most valuable assets would provide the club with greater flexibility to strengthen other areas of the squad before the new Serie A season begins.
Manchester United have already opened discussions with representatives of the player, although internal negotiations continue at Old Trafford regarding whether the club should commit such a significant fee to a single signing.
Who is Manu Koné?
Born in Colombes, France, Manu Koné began his football journey with local youth clubs before joining the academy of Toulouse. His technical ability, athleticism and tactical intelligence quickly distinguished him from other young midfielders.
In 2021, he secured a move to Borussia Monchengladbach in the Bundesliga, where he developed into one of Germany’s most exciting midfield talents. Playing against elite opposition every week helped him mature both physically and tactically.
After several impressive seasons in Germany, Roma secured his signature in the summer of 2024. His arrival was viewed as a major statement by the Italian club, who believed he possessed the qualities needed to dominate Serie A midfields.
Koné wasted little time adapting to Italian football.
During the 2025–26 campaign, he made 37 appearances across all competitions, scoring two goals and providing three assists. While those attacking numbers may appear modest, they do not fully reflect his influence on matches.
The French midfielder excels at winning possession, carrying the ball through midfield, breaking opposition pressure and launching attacks from deep positions. His energy, composure under pressure and ability to recover possession have earned praise from coaches and analysts across Europe.
World Cup Performances Raise His Profile
Koné’s reputation received another significant boost during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Representing France, he featured in five matches as Les Bleus finished fourth in the tournament. Although France narrowly missed out on the podium, Koné impressed with disciplined displays against several of the world’s strongest teams.
His performances demonstrated that he is capable of competing at the highest international level, increasing interest from clubs seeking midfielders with both experience and long-term potential.
At just 24 years old, Koné is entering what many consider the most productive years of his career, making him an attractive investment for clubs planning for both the present and the future.
Rashford Could Become the Key to the Deal
Manchester United’s biggest challenge remains meeting Roma’s financial demands.
One solution reportedly being explored is the inclusion of Marcus Rashford in negotiations.
The England international remains one of the club’s highest profile players despite facing an uncertain future. Rashford spent last season on loan at Barcelona, where he rediscovered his best form by scoring 14 goals and providing 14 assists in 49 appearances, helping the Spanish club secure the La Liga title.
Roma manager Gian Piero Gasperini is believed to admire Rashford’s pace, versatility and attacking quality. However, the financial realities of Italian football make any permanent transfer extremely difficult.
Rashford reportedly earns around €11 million net per season, a salary that exceeds Roma’s wage structure. Any agreement would likely require Manchester United to subsidize a significant portion of his wages, particularly if the move initially takes the form of a loan with an option to buy.
Such financial complexities explain why discussions remain at an early stage despite interest from both clubs.
Manchester United Continue Squad Rebuild
Manchester United have already strengthened several areas of the squad this summer and remain determined to build a team capable of competing for Premier League and European honours.
Club officials believe Koné’s athleticism, defensive awareness and ability to control possession would significantly improve the midfield. His arrival could provide greater balance alongside the club’s existing options while adding valuable international experience.
For now, negotiations remain ongoing, with both clubs expected to continue discussions in the coming weeks. Whether the final agreement involves a straightforward cash transfer or an ambitious player exchange featuring Marcus Rashford, Manu Koné’s future is shaping up to become one of the most closely watched transfer stories of the summer.
