AS Roma midfielder Manu Koné eyes transfer to PSG or Premier League as Arsenal talks advance

Manu Koné wants out of Rome, and he’s not being subtle about it. The 25-year-old French midfielder has set his sights on a summer move to either Paris Saint-Germain or the Premier League, barely a year after joining AS Roma.

PSG apparently hasn’t gotten the memo. The Parisian club has shown no formal interest in acquiring Koné. Meanwhile, Arsenal has reportedly progressed far enough in discussions to reach agreement on personal terms with the player.

From Gladbach to Roma to… somewhere else

Koné joined AS Roma from Borussia Mönchengladbach on August 30, 2024, for a fee of roughly €18 million plus €2 million in potential bonuses. His contract runs until June 30, 2029, which gives Roma significant leverage in any negotiation.

That leverage translates to a reported asking price in the €40 million to €60 million range, which would represent somewhere between a 2x and 3x return on Roma’s initial investment in under two years.

Koné’s gross salary at Roma sits at approximately €5.19 million per season, which works out to about €99,808 weekly.

Chelsea has also been mentioned as a potential suitor, though the Arsenal talks appear to be the most advanced.

Why Roma might have to sell

AS Roma’s willingness to entertain offers isn’t purely about cashing in on an appreciating asset. Financial scrutiny and the need to comply with regulations have created an environment where even high-performing players become available if the price is right.

Koné’s involvement with the French national team at the 2026 World Cup amplifies his visibility and, by extension, his price tag.

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