Arsenal have set their sights on France and Roma midfielder Manu Kone to bolster their midfield this summer, as their interest in Mateus Fernandes appears to be fading.
Title Defence Plans
The Gunners ended their 22-year wait for a Premier League title in May, and manager Mikel Arteta is determined to strengthen his squad to ensure the trophy remains in north London next season. Arsenal are looking to add depth at right-back, left wing, and up front, while another midfielder is also being considered.
Declan Rice, Martin Zubimendi, and Martin Odegaard were Arteta's first-choice options last season, but a gruelling campaign highlighted the need for additional cover in midfield. Myles Lewis-Skelly stepped up in the final weeks, but Christian Norgaard, who joined from Brentford last summer, is among those expected to leave.
Fernandes Interest Fades
Arsenal were initially interested in Mateus Fernandes, who impressed despite West Ham's relegation. However, Manchester United have made him a top target, and reports suggest Michael Carrick's side are leading the race. West Ham's £80 million valuation is a stumbling block, with Arsenal unwilling to meet those demands.
According to L'Equipe, Kone is now a target. The 25-year-old has completed his second season at Roma and is expected to leave this summer. Inter Milan are considered frontrunners, but Arsenal are also named as a club showing interest.
World Cup Prospect
Kone is part of the France squad heading to the World Cup, where they are among the favourites. Micah Richards recently praised Kone and Paris Saint-Germain's Warren Zaïre-Emery, calling Kone 'outstanding' and suggesting they could be unsung heroes for Les Bleus.
'France with that forward line are up there too – people talk about their midfield [being weaker compared to 2018] but Kone in midfield is outstanding,' Richards told Metro. 'Zaïre-Emery has excelled there and in other positions. Kante is still there and you know you are going to get hard work. With all the talent in front, you need people behind them who know what needs to be done.'
