AS Roma have rejected a €40 million bid from Atlético Madrid for midfielder Manu Koné, insisting that any deal for the French international must start at €60 million.
The 25-year-old’s market value has surged following his performances for France at the 2026 World Cup, where he has helped his nation reach the semi-finals. Italian reports indicate that Inter Milan had previously been told a €50 million fee would be sufficient earlier this year, but Roma have increased their demands after watching Koné shine on the global stage.
With France preparing to face Spain in the last four, Koné’s profile continues to attract attention from major European clubs. His displays in the tournament have transformed him from a promising Serie A acquisition into one of the summer’s most sought-after midfielders.
Premier League clubs enter fray
Manchester United and Liverpool have also expressed interest in securing Koné’s signature. The possibility of a bidding war between English giants has strengthened Roma’s negotiating position and convinced them to raise their asking price.
The Giallorossi purchased Koné from Borussia Mönchengladbach in the summer of 2024 for €18 million plus up to €2 million in add-ons. A sale at the current valuation would represent a significant profit on a player who has spent just one season in the Italian capital.
Strategic talks scheduled
Club owner Ryan Friedkin is scheduled to visit the Trigoria training centre for discussions with head coach Gian Piero Gasperini and new sporting director Tony D’Amico. The meeting will determine Roma’s broader transfer strategy and establish whether the club will maintain their hardline stance should formal bids from England materialise.
Roma have consistently maintained that Koné is available for the right price, but the €40 million Atlético offer fell well short of expectations. With Koné’s stock rising daily and Premier League clubs monitoring developments, the Serie A side appear willing to hold firm for an improved proposal.