Chelsea have made several enquiries to sign AS Roma star Manu Kone, with the Italian side now prepared to sanction a summer transfer.
Rio Ferdinand has stated he expects his former club, Manchester United, to sign Kone, and they have made an approach to sign the central midfielder, who is valued at £50m by Roma.
However, the Blues have surged into the race for the Frenchman’s signature — and with good reason. At the World Cup, the 25-year-old has really put himself in the shop window, featuring in five of France’s seven games thus far.
The Roma man was particularly impressive in the quarter-final against Morocco, retaining a pass-completion rate of 92% and winning three of the four ground duels he contested as his side went on to record a 2-0 victory.
Roma boss Gian Piero Gasperini praised his midfielder for his performances on the world’s biggest stage after the game, saying: “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.”
Manu Kone’s World Cup performance
- 386 minutes played
- 1.6 tackles per 90
- 0.7 interceptions per 90
- 5.8 recoveries per 90
- 3 chances created
In the Serie A last season, the 25-year-old also displayed he has the ability to contribute on the front foot, picking up two goals and three assists in 29 matches.
Roma’s stance on selling Manu Kone
According to a report from TEAMtalk, Roma are prepared to sell Kone for £50m this summer, and Chelsea have made a number of enquiries regarding a deal.
Man United have already made an approach, but the Blues are now attempting to hijack a deal, with BlueCo eager to strengthen Xabi Alonso‘s options in the middle of the park.
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Football FanCast’s Verdict |
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Credibility |
In his first interview as Chelsea manager, Alonso made it clear he wants Enzo Fernandez to stay. However, the Argentina star’s agents are known to be weighing up potential moves, so there is a chance he moves on this summer. With that in mind, it may be important for the Blues to sign a new midfielder this summer, and Kone fits the bill. |
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Finances |
£50m would be relatively expensive, but the Blues could raise £100m from selling Fernandez, who has been attracting interest from Manchester City, which would offset any deal. |
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Insight |
That said, the Roma star may not be a like-for-like replacement, given that he isn’t always the most consistent goalscorer. The 19-cap France star has found the net 16 times across spells with Toulouse, Borussia Mönchengladbach and Roma, during which time he’s often featured in a more defensive role. |
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Impact |
Chelsea have also been targeting Crystal Palace star Adam Wharton as a replacement for Fernandez. However, the Englishman could cost £100m, and Kone could be a cheaper alternative. |
