Manu Kone’s AS Roma exit has gained traction in the past few weeks and Chelsea have been given hope of a deal.
Sport Witness have covered how it was Arsenal who made initial contact for the Frenchman. They also agreed personal terms but never made a formal move.
At the same time, the Italian side appeared interested in his sale. They need sales by the end of June due to UEFA FFP reasons. Despite their best attempts, nothing has moved in the right direction.
This has also led to Chelsea emerging as a destination for the midfielder. Now, they have been given hope that a deal can through.
Possible Fernandez replacement
Today’s Il Messaggero covers Kone’s situation and makes it clear that Atletico Madrid have stepped forward for him. However, the 24-year-old rejected their approach, waiting for a Premier League
Chelsea and Arsenal are the clubs currently in the mix.
Real Madrid can play a role in the saga. They are interested in Enzo Fernandez and if Jose Mourinho’s side make the right approach, the Argentine could leave.
This would give Chelsea the finances to move for Kone, who would welcome the transfer.
Atleti’s offer was at €45m, which is quite close to Roma’s asking price. An amount like that will seal the deal for the Blues or Arsenal.
Ideal replacement
Profile wise, Fernandez and Kone are quite similar. The Argentine has thrived as a ball-carrier and that is a key strength in Kone’s skillset. That was clearly on show under Gian Piero Gasperini, whose setup brought the most out of the France international.
That is why a move for the Roma star will make sense.
Roma are in a difficult financial situation and there is a chance of a discount if a deal is completed before the end of June.