Manchester United prepare bid for Roma midfielder Manu Koné after World Cup

Manchester United are expected to step up their pursuit of AS Roma midfielder Manu Koné once the World Cup concludes, with reports suggesting the Red Devils are preparing to submit an official offer in the coming days.

The France international has attracted strong interest from the Premier League after an impressive season in Serie A, while Chelsea are also monitoring his situation ahead of what could become one of the summer's biggest midfield transfers.

According to reports in Italy, Manchester United have already opened discussions with Koné's representatives and received a positive response from the player's camp.

Although the 25-year-old is believed to favour a move to Paris Saint-Germain if the opportunity arises, United remain confident they can convince him to move to Old Trafford.

Chelsea's interest has also emerged during talks with Roma over Alejandro Garnacho, but the Blues are currently viewed as trailing United in the race.

Neither Premier League club has submitted a formal bid, although both are expected to test Roma's resolve in the coming days.

Roma are understood to value Koné at between €55 million and €60 million, with no intention of lowering their demands.

The midfielder has asked his representatives to pause transfer discussions until France complete their World Cup campaign, with Les Bleus set to face England in the third-place play-off.

Once the tournament ends, negotiations are expected to accelerate.

Roma believe Koné's performances on the international stage have only strengthened his market value, and a sale above €50 million would generate a significant profit that could be reinvested into Gian Piero Gasperini's squad.

One factor working in Manchester United's favour is the opportunity to offer Koné Champions League football next season.

That could prove decisive if Paris Saint-Germain do not formalise their interest, particularly as the midfielder prepares to make a decision on the next step in his career after the World Cup.

Italian reports suggest next week could become the decisive period, with Roma expecting formal approaches from England once international commitments have ended.

With France's World Cup campaign almost over, Koné's future is expected to become much clearer next week. Manchester United appear ready to make the first concrete move, but Chelsea and other potential suitors could still enter the race if Roma officially place the midfielder on the market.

Should Manchester United invest more than €55 million to bring Manu Koné to Old Trafford this summer?