Man United's chances of signing Manu Kone revealed - 'there's a deal...'

Manchester United are keeping tabs on Manu Kone but their interest is not advanced as things stand, sources have told Football Insider.

The 25-year-old impressed watching scouts with his performances at the World Cup with France, and has now emerged as a leading target for Michael Carrick's side.

Following the arrivals of Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans, the Red Devils are determined to land one more midfield signing, and the Roma star in high on their shortlist.

However, as I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider's Transfer Insider podcast, despite suggestions elsewhere, Man United's interest in Kone has not yet been formalised.

Carrick's side are still weighing up a number of options to come into their midfield, and while the France international is highly thought of, they are not yet in talks.

Despite that, if they are given encouragement by Roma that a deal is there to be done, they could be tempted to make a move in the coming weeks.

Could Man United make a move for Manu Kone?

Football Insider revealed on 10 July that Man United would look to bring in three midfielders this summer, with one more now left to follow Santos and Tielemans to Old Trafford.

Kone has emerged as a leading option to become that third midfield signing, with his profile as a more defensive-minded option making him ideal for the role.

Any deal would have to first be negotiated with Roma to reach a price tag that works for both clubs, with United reluctant to overpay, but talks have not yet began.

Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: "He's a player that Manchester United do admire and he's somebody who is on their list for the defensive midfield reinforcements.

"They've brought in Tielemans and Santos, and ideally they would like to bring in a third midfielder and a more defensive midfielder, and Kone fits the bill.

"United went quietly about their business and did deals for Tielemans and Santos, who both came in while they were being linked with other players.

"Kone is one of a number of defensive midfielders that United's recruitment staff are looking at at the moment, so there's nothing advanced on this one.

"It's just another player who's on their list, and if it looks like there is a deal that could be done, then it's one that they maybe could pursue."

Which other midfielders are on Man United's radar?

With Man United not having yet formalised their interest in signing Kone, they are continuing to assess a number of options to come in as their third midfield signing.

Following Casemiro's departure and a serious injury to Manuel Ugarte, as well as a deal for Atalanta star Ederson falling through, they are now eyeing new targets.

Football Insider revealed on 3 July that Man United are planning to step up their interest in Bournemouth star Alex Scott after he enjoyed a strong season with the Cherries.

While not necessarily seen as a like-for-like replacement for Casemiro, the England Under-21 international is highly regarded and United are keen to bring him in.

Bournemouth are extremely reluctant to lose Scott, however, and have opened talks in an attempt to convince him to sign a new contract rather than make a move away.