Chelsea interested in Roma midfielder Manu Kone, says RMC

Chelsea are interested in signing France midfielder Manu Kone from Roma in the final hours of the summer transfer window, according to Radio Monte Carlo.

The summer transfer window closes on Tuesday in most of Europe’s major leagues, leaving Chelsea with limited time to strengthen their midfield if they decide to pursue a deal for the 25-year-old.

RMC reports that Chelsea are showing significant interest in Kone as they assess their options in the centre of the pitch. The Roma player is understood to be one of the leading candidates on their shortlist.

Kone could become a potential replacement for Enzo Fernandez, who has been linked with a move to Manchester City.

Chelsea are continuing to consider the available possibilities for the position, with Kone now emerging as one of the players they would be keen to bring in. The report does not state that a deal has been agreed between Chelsea and Roma.

Kone has also attracted interest from Saudi Arabian club Al-Ahli Saudi FC. Several weeks ago, Italian newspaper Corriere dello Sport reported that Al-Ahli Saudi FC were negotiating with Roma over a possible move for the France international during the summer window.

According to that report, Al-Ahli Saudi FC’s management had spoken both to Kone’s representative and to Roma about the possibility of the midfielder joining the winners of the AFC Champions League Elite.

Roma would not oppose the sale of the Frenchman during the summer transfer window, the report added. Kone is also on the radar of Manchester United and Atletico de Madrid.

The midfielder enjoyed a strong tournament with France at the 2026 World Cup. He has been part of the Roma squad since joining the club in the summer of 2024 and has made 82 appearances across all competitions.

Kone has scored four goals and provided six assists during that time.

Before moving to Roma, the France international played for Toulouse and Borussia Monchengladbach. His performances at club and international level have helped make him a target for several teams as the transfer deadline approaches.

Chelsea’s interest comes as clubs across Europe work to complete their final business before Tuesday’s deadline. With Fernandez linked to Manchester City, Kone is being considered as a possible option to provide further depth and quality in midfield, although any move would have to be completed quickly if Chelsea decide to make a formal approach to Roma.