Man Utd Agree Third Midfielder Signing as Ederson Transfer Talks Advance

According to a report by Football365 on Thursday July 16, 2026, Manchester United have reportedly reached an agreement to sign Roma midfielder Manu Kone as they continue strengthening their squad. According to Rio Ferdinand, citing Fabrizio Romano, the Red Devils have agreed a £45 million deal for the France international.

United are determined to build on last season’s impressive campaign under Michael Carrick, who guided the club to a third-place Premier League finish and qualification for the UEFA Champions League, increasing their financial flexibility during this summer’s transfer window.

The club has already reinforced its midfield with the arrivals of Andrey Santos from Chelsea and Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa. Despite those additions, Manchester United remain eager to recruit another central midfielder before the transfer window closes.

Ferdinand revealed on his YouTube channel that Romano had confirmed an agreement between United and Roma. Kone, who impressed with France during the 2026 World Cup, is now expected to become the club’s third midfield signing this summer.

Earlier in the transfer window, Manchester United had appeared certain to sign Atalanta midfielder Ederson. However, the proposed move eventually collapsed, ending speculation that he would complete a switch to Old Trafford after lengthy negotiations.

Although rumours suggested United could revive their interest in Ederson, Romano dismissed those claims. Instead, reports indicate the Brazilian could become Roma’s preferred replacement if Kone completes his anticipated move to Manchester United this summer.

Agent Dario Canovi admitted losing Kone would represent another major blow for Serie A. He argued Italian clubs are increasingly forced to sell top players abroad because of financial pressures, weakening the league’s overall competitiveness and long-term quality.

Canovi also praised Ederson’s qualities, describing him as a complete midfielder capable of winning possession, creating chances and scoring goals. He believes Roma manager Gian Piero Gasperini would likely approve signing the Brazilian if Kone leaves the Italian club.