Kobbie Mainoo is likely to have competition as Manchester United are reportedly set to snap up Serie A midfielder Manu Kone ahead of the summer transfer window. The club are positioning themselves for a significant midfield refresh ahead of the 2026-27 season. While January reinforcements remain under discussion, the focus is increasingly on a two-step rebuild, one addition now, and another in the summer, with Kone emerging as a prominent name on the shortlist.

France were held to a frustrating 2-2 draw against Iceland in what turned out to be a trickier World Cup qualifying away trip than many expected it to be. Following the game, head coach Didier Deschamps explained his unhappiness with the officiating, claiming that midfielder Manu Kone was fouled in the build up to the hosts' opening goal in the first half.