Manu Kone has reportedly asked his agent to suspend any transfer negotiations until after the World Cup, amid interest from Manchester United and Chelsea. The 25-year-old Roma midfielder, represented by Excellence Sport Nation (ESN), is currently competing in the tournament with France, which will end after Saturday's bronze final against England.
Manchester United and Chelsea show interest
Manchester United are said to have approached Kone's entourage, while Chelsea have also been credited with an interest. The Blues reportedly spoke to Roma during discussions about Alejandro Garnacho. According to Gazzetta dello Sport, both clubs are expected to make offers for Kone in the coming days. The player is believed to be willing to sign for United, though his dream destination would be Paris Saint-Germain. With a move to PSG seemingly unlikely, Corriere dello Sport claims United are the frontrunners.
World Cup decision timeline
A decision on Kone's future is expected once his World Cup campaign concludes. Reports suggest next week could be the turning point. Roma are reportedly seeking approximately £47 million for the midfielder, which would yield £34 million in profit. This sum is significant for the Italian club, which was fined £5 million by UEFA earlier this summer for exceeding financial fair play targets and having a squad cost ratio over 70%.
Roma's financial situation
Roma head coach Gian Piero Gasperini acknowledged the club's financial constraints, telling Radio Rai 1: "The financial fair play conditions are never exactly precise or defined, they vary from team to team. It's undeniable that Roma know that we have to balance the budgets, which has been tough in recent years. I'd hoped that entry into the Champions League would have been enough, but budgets are important for clubs and must be respected. I think there will be more clarity in the coming weeks."
Speaking about Kone, Gasperini added: "Kone had a great first half of the season, and then was out of action due to injury for a bit during the second half. He's having a great World Cup. He didn't play with the France national team last year, but now he's been able to claim a starting spot. It shows his potential and the work he's put in."
United's midfield plans
Manchester United are looking to sign a third central midfielder this summer, having already acquired Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans. Kone is one of several in-demand midfielders on their radar. The club has also been linked with other options, but Kone's performances at the World Cup have increased his appeal.
