Speculation around Manchester United and Manu Kone has grown in recent days. The Italian press are now pushing the idea of his sale.
Sport Witness have regularly covered the midfielder’s situation in the last few weeks. Due to Roma’s issues with FFP, they appeared interested in selling him. This led to Arsenal and Chelsea stepping forward, but they never made formal offers.
With Manchester United having moved on from Ederson, the Roma star has emerged as an option.
Giallorossi manager Gian Piero Gasperini has now opened up about the midfielder’s situation.
Roma may not have a choice
The Italian spoke to Rai Radio Uno about the France international, making it clear that the Italian side could be forced into a sale due to financial reasons.
Gasperini said – via AllRoma, praising Kone’s growth: “Unlike Malen, he was sidelined for a while due to injury and arrived at the World Cup in better shape. Last year he hadn’t played for France yet, and he managed to earn a starting spot, which shows his true worth.”
On his uncertain future, the Italian clarified: “His future? I think these Financial Fair Play conditions are never so precise and defined; they vary from team to team. Roma also need to balance the books, which have been burdensome in recent years.
“I hoped that returning to the Champions League would be enough, but it’s clear that financial statements are crucial for clubs. I believe there will be more clarity in the coming weeks.”
Price tag constantly changing
There are increasing signs Roma aren’t sure of their valuation for the midfielder.
Today’s Corriere dello Sport note that Atletico Madrid offered €40m to sign Kone in recent weeks. This amount was rejected by the Italian side, who now demand €60m because of Kone’s positive impression at the World Cup.
The newspaper indicate Manchester United and Liverpool are interested and they would have to meet that price.
But previously, the valuation has been at €50m, which suggests Roma should be open to a favourable deal.
Hint at major sale
Considering the financial dynamics of Italian football, Roma would struggle to reject a major offer for Kone. The midfielder joined them from Borussia Monchengladbach in 2024 for €20m, signing a five-year deal.
He now weighs at €12m and anything over that goes down as a capital gain for the Italian side.
Besides, when speculation around Arsenal had grown, the Italian press were sure that Kone’s value was around €45m. It is another sign that if Manchester United offer €50m, they could seal the deal.
