Manchester United have been informed that French midfielder Manu Kone will command a transfer fee exceeding £45 million, as the Premier League giants redirect their attention towards the Roma star after abandoning their move for Atalanta’s Ederson.

Following the breakdown of talks for Ederson, United have made Kone their top midfield target ahead of the summer window’s closure. The France international has impressed the Red Devils’ recruitment team, who view him as an ideal fit for the physical intensity and tactical demands of English football. However, Roma have made it clear that any potential move will require a significant outlay.

Manchester United’s decision to step away from the Ederson deal came as a surprise, particularly as negotiations had reached an advanced stage after the Brazilian completed his medical assessments. Reports from Corriere dello Sport suggest that United had secured a €45 million (£38 million) agreement for the Atalanta player, with personal terms finalised. Despite this, the Old Trafford management unexpectedly withdrew from the transfer, turning their attention swiftly to Roma’s Kone.

According to Sky Sport Italia and transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, United’s withdrawal followed a request for further medical evaluations. Nevertheless, Atalanta remain convinced that the Premier League club’s change of plan was purely strategic rather than health-related. Ederson, who is in good physical condition, was earlier named in Brazil’s World Cup squad, reinforcing the belief that fitness concerns were not a factor in United’s decision.

Roma, on the other hand, have made their stance clear through sporting director Tony D’Amico, who is overseeing a transfer policy shaped by Financial Fair Play obligations. Corriere dello Sport reports that the Giallorossi have set a firm asking price of €55 million (£47 million) for Kone, reflecting his outstanding performances on the international stage. The Italian club is unwilling to consider offers below this valuation, with even proposals around €50 million (£42.5 million) deemed inadequate to secure his services.

Manchester United’s leadership now face a critical period as they prepare to formalise a fresh bid before the transfer window closes. The collapse of the Ederson deal has intensified pressure on the club to complete a successful midfield signing and avoid repeating past negotiation setbacks. Competition from other major European sides for Kone’s signature is expected to increase in the coming weeks.

Meanwhile, Ederson’s immediate future at Atalanta remains uncertain. The midfielder could either reintegrate into the squad under new head coach Maurizio Sarri or explore alternative transfer opportunities before the deadline.