Roma head coach Gian Piero Gasperini says Man Utd transfer target Manu Kone may need to be sold to ensure the club don’t breach UEFA Financial Fair Play rules
There has been a lot of speculation about the midfielder’s future in recent weeks. When asked whether the player could stay at the Stadio Olimpico, Gasperini mentioned the pressure to balance the books:
“He was able to win a starting spot for France, and this shows his qualities. Will he stay? I think these Financial Fair Play conditions vary from team to team; they’re not precise.”
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“It is undeniable that Roma knew that it had this need to settle budgets. I hope that the arrival in the Champions League will be enough, but it is clear that the balance sheets are fundamental for the companies, and there will be more clarity in the coming weeks.”
Will Man Utd sign another midfielder?
After triggering the release clause in the contract of Aston Villa’s Youri Tielemans, there is no guarantee that the Red Devils will pursue a third addition in the middle of the park, having already confirmed the arrival of Chelsea’s Andrey Santos.
However, after spending just £85m on the pair, there is likely to be room in the transfer budget for another signing if manager Michael Carrick deems it necessary.
How much will Kone cost?
Reports in the Italian media have repeatedly mentioned an asking price of around €50m (£43m), but as Gasperini points out, the player has been playing regularly for his country at the World Cup.
Kone’s performances will attract other suitors. Arsenal have been suggested as a potential rival for his signature, especially if they fail to secure the services of Newcastle captain Bruno Guimaraes.
If more teams enter the race for the France international, it could tempt Roma to increase their demands, despite there being a clear need to sell him.
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