New Manu Kone suspicion raised after Man Utd board's feelings on £51m transfer

Kone impressed with his performances on the World stage for France in the World Cup this summer. He helped his side to a fourth-place finish in the tournament, losing to England in third-place play-off.

Reports in France last month claimed that United had opened talks with Roma over a deal, but faced competition from Arsenal. Former United full-back Patrice Evra has now appeared to suggest that a move to the Emirates Stadium may be the right one for the 25-year-old, instead of a place in Michael Carrick's squad.

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To get it, it's a simple one-two punch.

"I like Manu Kone's profile for the Premier League,” Evra told Stake. “He has energy, he carries the ball, he likes duels and he works for the team.

"All of those things matter in England. The Premier League is faster. You don't get time to breathe.

“So the important thing is adaptation. Don't judge him after five games.

"If he goes to Arsenal with a manager who knows how to use him, I think he can do well. He definitely has the tools. Then it is about consistency."

It comes after claims that the United hierarchy are split over a potential move for Kone this summer. The Telegraph reports that the midfielder does not have ‘universal backing internally’ at United.

Reports in Italy suggest that the club have agreed personal terms with Kone, but are yet to agree a fee with Roma over a transfer. The Italian side are said to want a fee of around €60 million (£51m) if they are to cash in this summer.

United are on the lookout for a third midfield signing in the current window, having completed transfers for Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans for a combined £85 million last month. As well as Kone, United have been linked with an interest in the likes of Aurelien Tchouameni, Alex Scott and Tyler Adams.

There were, however, some reports this week that United may look to concentrate resources elsewhere, with the club on the lookout for a new left-back. Newcastle United’s Lewis Hall has emerged as a priority target for the position but the Reds may be forced to look elsewhere with the Magpies seemingly unwilling to sell.