Man United have ‘made initial contacts’ for signing – Summer move possible, Rangnick scouted him for years

Having lost Nemanja Matić and with Paul Pogba on the verge of leaving Old Trafford as a free agent for the second time in his career, Manchester United will need to bring in a new midfielder this summer.

Various players have already been linked to the Red Devils and one more name, Kouadio Koné, is added to that list.

L’Equipe on Friday states that ‘at least three top clubs’, including Manchester United, ‘have made initial contacts’ to sign the Borussia Mönchengladbach player.

The other two sides are Atlético Madrid and Juventus, and it’s claimed Los Rojiblancos sporting director, Andrea Berta, is a ‘fan’ of the 21-year-old.

With regards to Manchester United, the report states their consultant, Ralf Rangnick has been looking at the potential of the midfielder for several years. Apart from these three clubs, Leicester City are also added to the Frenchman’s suitors list.

Gladbach finished in the 10th spot and will not feature in any European competition next season.

Therefore, Koné, who has a contract until 2025, is reflecting on his future for this summer, which would indicate a move in the coming months is possible.

He joined the German club from Toulouse in 2021 and finished his debut season with 29 appearances in all competitions.

L’Equipe state Koné has ‘built a very solid reputation in one season’ and ‘enjoys a high rating’, with Manchester United, Atlético and Juve all initiating contact to sign him.