Liverpool Are Set To Join Manchester United For This Serie A Midfielder: Good Option For Iraola?

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The 4th Official

20 July 2026

Speaking on the Transfer Insider

podcast

, journalist Pete O’Rourke claimed that

Liverpool

are set to join Manchester United for AS

Roma

midfielder Manu Kone. O’Rourke said,

“Man United have brought in Tielemans and Santos, and they would like to bring in a third, more defensive midfielder.

“Kone fits the bill for them in that respect, he’s had a very good World Cup for France when he’s played for them as well.

“But there are a lot of clubs interested in signing him, and there has been talk that Liverpool could potentially make a move for him after watching him at the World Cup.

“We know they also want to improve their midfield options, and he is somebody who is very much on their radar as they aim to strengthen Andoni Iraola’s squad.

“Roma would be reluctant sellers due to their finances. They would find it hard to turn down a big money offer for Kone. He still has three years left on his contract.”

Kone enjoyed a good run of form at the Italian club in the previous campaign when he produced a series of impressive displays for them in Serie A. The 25-year-old scored two times and earned three assists in 37 matches for AS

last season across all fronts.

The French talent is currently among the best central midfielders in his homeland. Thus, Liverpool would do well to win the race for his services this summer.

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – JULY 04: Manu Kone #6 of France is pulled his shirt by Gustavo Caballero #24 of Paraguay during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 match between Paraguay and France at Philadelphia Stadium on July 04, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)

His current contract at the Italian club will run out in the summer of 2029, which could make it tough for the Reds to sign him on a cut-price deal later this year.

Kone loves a tackle and can time his challenges well to secure possession back for his team inside his half. He usually clears the danger when needed and is a good passer of the ball as well.

The French sensation can even contribute by scoring and engineering the odd goal for his team from midfield. However, it remains to be seen whether he can make a smooth transition to life in the

Premier League

Kone would add more quality and depth to Liverpool boss Andoni Iraola’s midfield. He is good enough to compete for a regular first-team spot at Anfield next season.

At 25, Kone has got his best years ahead of him. He will also help the Reds challenge across all competitions in the coming years. Hence, Kone would be a great choice for Liverpool to consider this off-season.

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