Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Ahli have joined the race to sign Roma midfielder Manu Koné, though any pursuit of the France international hinges on the sale of current midfielder Enzo Millot. According to Gianluigi Longari, the Jeddah-based club view Koné as a priority target alongside Idrissa Gueye, yet offloading Millot remains a non-negotiable precondition for fresh arrivals. Even if they resolve Millot’s departure, Al-Ahli would still need to open negotiations with Roma from scratch and convince the player to accept a switch to Saudi Arabia.
The fresh Saudi interest adds further competition to an already crowded market for the 23-year-old. Al-Hilal, managed by Simone Inzaghi, are also in direct contact with Roma regarding Koné, while Manchester United, Arsenal and Atlético Madrid retain strong interest in securing his services.
Koné’s stock has risen sharply following an impressive 2025-26 campaign with the Giallorossi, which culminated in Champions League qualification, and standout displays for France at the 2026 World Cup in North America. His dynamic performances in central midfield have attracted attention from Europe’s elite and ambitious projects further afield.
Valuation and preferences
Valuation reports present conflicting figures. Sky Sport indicate Roma value Koné at approximately €60 million, whereas Gianluigi Longari suggests the Giallorossi would consider offers around €50 million as they look to balance the books under UEFA scrutiny.
Despite the financial muscle of Saudi clubs, Koné’s preference remains a transfer to the Premier League. However, sources suggest he has not dismissed the possibility of moves to La Liga or the Saudi Pro League, leaving the door ajar for Inzaghi’s Al-Hilal or Al-Ahli should negotiations with English clubs falter.
Manchester United previously held formal discussions with Roma after a separate deal for Atalanta’s Éderson collapsed, though no agreement has been reached with any party. With Koné under contract and multiple enquiries on the table, Roma face no immediate pressure to sell, yet the volume of serious suitors suggests a departure before the window closes remains plausible.