Manchester United is actively pursuing midfield reinforcements ahead of the new Premier League season, targeting Roma's Manu Kone and Brighton's Carlos Baleba.
According to Corriere dello Sport, French international Manu Kone, 25, has agreed personal terms with United.
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The club is preparing an initial bid of around £42.7 million, though Roma values the player at £51 million to meet Financial Fair Play rules.
Real Madrid previously withdrew after a £34.1 million offer was rejected, while Chelsea and Al-Ahli remain interested.
To bridge the valuation gap, Gazzetta dello Sport reports that United could include forward Marcus Rashford in a swap or loan deal.
Roma needs a left-sided attacker, but Rashford's £325,000 weekly wage is a hurdle, likely requiring United to cover part of his salary.
Rashford returned to the squad after Barcelona declined a £26 million buy option following a loan, instead signing Anthony Gordon from Newcastle.
Manager's Flexible Approach
Manager Michael Carrick emphasized a flexible stance on squad management. "Whoever's here, I want to work with, and help them improve," Carrick said.
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He added that his focus is on maximizing performance from the current roster. "At the moment, it's this squad of players.
There's obviously players on loan, and whatever happens with that later on will happen."
Carrick reiterated his commitment to development across competitions.
"But certainly, as a coach, and leader of a squad, we want to get the best out of everyone."
Meanwhile, Brighton's Carlos Baleba has emerged as a parallel target.
Journalist Fabrizio Romano reports that the 22-year-old Cameroonian's representatives initiated contact with United after his valuation dropped from £100 million last summer to around £70 million.
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United has already completed signings of Youri Tielemans, Karl Darlow, and Andrey Santos as pre-season preparations continue.
