Arsenal have reached an agreement with Manu Kone's entourage
Arsenal have reached an agreement with Manu Kone’s entourage
Last week, Arsenal were linked with a move for Manu Kone. The Gunners’ attempts to sign the midfielder are now intensifying.
Kone will feature for France at the FIFA World Cup. Les Bleus play Senegal in their opening game on Tuesday and there is every chance the AS Roma star features.
He has played 82 times for Roma in all competitions, contributing to ten goals. The 25-year-old has thrived under Gian Piero Gasperini, attracting attention from many clubs in Europe.
Sport Witness have covered how Arsenal initiated contact for Kone. They have tried to take advantage of Roma’s financial situation, which is forcing them to sell before June 30th due to FFP reasons.
Now, the London club have made further in-roads over a deal.
Agreement over personal terms
Corriere della Sera report today that Kone had been hoping for a move to PSG. He rejected Atletico Madrid in the hope of that but the French giants do not appear keen.
This has given Arsenal the space to move. They have the Les Bleus player on their shortlist and are serious about securing his signature.
That is why after making initial contact, they have now agreed personal terms through his entourage. Their next step is going to be a formal offer, with Roma demanding at least €50m.
The entourage was to push a transfer through as soon as possible. Arsenal are now structuring their offer and deciding on the timing.
Gunners should make the offer
These are promising signs for Mikel Arteta’s side, who can yet take advantage of Roma’s financial situation. If they make an offer which is around €45m, it should be enough.
Kone will take burden off Declan Rice’s shoulders and can also play deeper. Martin Zubimendi has appeared to be an odd fit for Arteta’s system and he often slows play down. Kone can speed it up, as his strengths lie in circulating the ball forward quickly.