With just over two months remaining in 2026, Liverpool are beginning to look ahead to the January transfer window.
Andoni Iraola has made a steady start, although several areas still require improvement. Julian Ward’s return as sporting director following Richard Hughes’ departure could see the Reds explore further additions, with AS Roma midfielder Manu Kone emerging as a potential target.
The 25-year-old previously attracted interest from Liverpool and Tottenham before joining Roma, where he has established himself as a key figure under Gian Piero Gasperini.
Chelsea were also linked with Kone over the summer and are reportedly continuing to monitor his situation. Liverpool’s interest has resurfaced amid the possibility of strengthening their midfield, particularly with uncertainty surrounding Alexis Mac Allister.
However, competition could intensify, with Italian outlet Calciomercato.it reporting that Bayern Munich are keen to sign Kone as early as January. Roma have little desire to lose the Frenchman who remains central to their plans, while his contract runs until 2029.
Nevertheless, their resolve could be tested if Bayern make a substantial offer. Manu Kone suffered a grade-one thigh injury during Roma’s Champions League clash against Real Madrid last week and is expected to be sidelined for three to four weeks.
Kone could also miss France’s next squad selection, scheduled for next month. After featuring in three of the four Nations League matches under Zinedine Zidane in September, the midfielder may be forced to miss the away fixture against Italy on November 12 and the home clash with Turkey three days later.
His absence is a blow for Roma, with the midfielder one of Piero Gasperini’s most important players. Should Bayern Munich follow through with a sizeable bid, it remains to be seen whether Liverpool would be willing to enter a bidding war.
The January transfer window could bring Kone’s future into sharper focus, particularly given Liverpool’s reluctance to conduct major business mid-season.
However, the Reds have previously accelerated transfer plans, notably bringing forward their move for Luis Diaz when Tottenham appeared poised to sign the Colombian.
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