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Chelsea are weighing up a move for Roma midfielder Manu Kone, according to reports in Italy.
The 25-year-old has been heavily linked with a switch to Manchester United in recent weeks, but Il Messaggero (via vocegiallorossa.it) claim that the Blues are the team likeliest to make a move for the player at the moment.
Kone is regarded as a potential replacement for Enzo Fernandez, if the Argentinian international does leave Stamford Bridge before the transfer window shuts.
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A domino effect could lead to Chelsea signing the midfielder
It is believed that a lot hinges on Rodri’s move to Barcelona going ahead. If the Spaniard is sold by City, it is believed they could pursue Fernandez, with Enzo Maresca keen to be reunited with his former player.
Il Messaggero report that Kone is in line to replace Fernandez in the event that he departs Stamford Bridge.
Kone has received plenty of praise
Speaking about the Roma star during the World Cup, Arsenal and France legend Patrick Vieira said:
“He had a really good season in Serie A with Roma. He came to the World Cup after a couple of injuries. He is for me today the best midfielder in France.”
“I’d put him ahead of Tchouameni and Rabiot, because he has this mobility, he is aggressive, he is a ball-winner, and he has the technical ability to be part of the build-up, has the facility with the ball to break lines and move forward.”
Despite the praise coming his way for his recent performances, Kone is on the market, with Roma under pressure to balance the books to comply with UEFA Financial Fair Play rules. A bid between €50m (£43m) and €6om (£51m) could be accepted.