Every summer, the worst-kept secret in the transfer market is that Roma must sell before June 30th to balance the books and avoid UEFA’s FFP restrictions. This summer, with Roma in need of about €50 million, the sharks have begun circling some of Roma’s prized assets. There were already reports that Roma turned down a large offer from Chelsea for Mile Svilar, who has been deemed untouchable by Gasperini.
Based on recent reports, the Giallorossi are looking to do everything in their power to avoid
selling any of their most important players before the end of the month to satisfy their financial agreement with UEFA. That would mean keeping Svilar, Evan Ndicka, and Manu Koné in the fold. To do that, Roma will likely look to move Matías Soulé, Jan Ziolkowski, and smaller parts to make up the €50 million.
Nevertheless, that doesn’t mean some of Europe’s biggest clubs won’t try to pry one of the aforementioned trio away from Roma with a big offer. The player attracting the most interest is Koné. The midfielder, currently Stateside with the French national team, has no shortage of suitors. Originally linked with Inter Milan, the strongest interest now appears to be coming from abroad, with the Nerazzurri likely priced out.
Just a couple of days ago, reports emerged that Premier League Champions Arsenal had contacted Koné’s entourage about a potential summer move. However, there were no reports of contact with Roma. Now, it appears that Atletico Madrid has made an approach for Roma’s prized midfielder, but the Spanish side received a negative response from the player.
According to Corriere della Sera, the reason for the quick ‘no’ is that Koné is hoping to eventually join two-time defending European champions PSG. There hasn’t been any mention of interest from PSG yet, but it’s still early. According to the report, if Koné does eventually make a move, American Yunus Musah could be pursued as a replacement.
Given Koné’s talents and the potential for a breakout World Cup campaign, he will have no shortage of suitors throughout the summer. While Gasperini would love to keep him as his midfield engine, it may be difficult for the Giallorossi if the player seeks a challenge elsewhere.
