Manchester United Agree Third Midfield Transfer as Ederson Exit Could Spark Move

According to a report by Football365 on Thursday, July 16, 2026, Manchester United have reportedly agreed a deal to sign AS Roma midfielder Manu Kone as they continue to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season. The agreement, said to be worth around £45 million, was revealed by Rio Ferdinand, who cited transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

Following an impressive campaign under manager Michael Carrick, which saw the Red Devils finish third in the Premier League and secure qualification for the UEFA Champions League, the club has entered the summer transfer market with the ambition of improving key areas of the squad.

United have already completed the signings of Andrey Santos from Chelsea and Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa to boost their midfield. However, the club has remained keen on adding another central midfielder, with Kone now appearing set to become their third midfield arrival of the transfer window.

Ferdinand disclosed on his YouTube channel that Romano confirmed an agreement had been reached with Roma for the French international. Kone further enhanced his reputation with a series of impressive performances for France during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, making him one of Europe’s most sought-after midfielders.

Manchester United had previously been strongly linked with a move for Atalanta midfielder Ederson, but negotiations eventually broke down and the transfer failed to materialise. While there were suggestions that the Premier League club could return for the Brazilian, Romano reportedly dismissed the possibility.

Instead, Ederson is now being considered as a potential replacement by Roma if Kone completes his expected switch to Old Trafford. The Italian club is believed to view the Atalanta midfielder as an ideal option to fill the gap that Kone would leave behind.

Italian football agent Dario Canovi admitted that losing Kone would be another setback for Serie A, arguing that financial challenges continue to force Italian clubs to sell some of their best talents abroad. He also praised Ederson’s qualities, describing him as a complete midfielder capable of contributing both defensively and offensively, while suggesting Roma manager Gian Piero Gasperini would likely welcome the Brazilian if Kone departs.