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Arsenal make contact over deal to sign Manu Kone

By on June 16, 2026

Arsenal have made enquiries over a deal to sign French midfielder Manu Koné from AS Roma this summer, according to Nicolo Schira.

After joining AC Boulogne-Billancourt’s youth side as a 14-year-old in July 2015, Koné was scouted by Toulouse, who signed him the following year. He came through the ranks at the French club before making his debut in a 2-1 loss to Dijon on matchday 38 of the 2018-19 season.

He went on to make 58 more appearances for Le Téfécé before joining Borussia Monchengladbach permanently after previously impressing during his two-season loan spell.

At Monchengladbach, the 25-year-old was one of the most coveted midfielders in Europe, with his performances drawing significant interest from several top clubs.

Roma beat keen interest from several clubs to sign him in the summer of 2024, and he has since established himself as one of Serie A’s best midfielders.

Last season, he made 37 appearances in all competitions, and his commanding displays earned him a place in Didier Deschamps’ 26-man France squad, with significant interest from clubs expected to grow in the course of the tournament.

Now, according to Nicolo Schira, Arsenal have made enquiries over a deal to sign Koné from Roma this summer.

The Gunners now appear to be fast-tracking their pursuit, with the journalist adding that the Premier League winners have made contact with the midfielder’s representatives to discuss his potential transfer to the Emirates Stadium this summer.

Christian Nørgaard’s replacement?

With two months left till the completion of the transfer window, Arsenal are keeping close tabs on the France international ahead of a summer swoop, Schira adds.

Koné is primarily a box-to-box midfielder but is equally capable of playing in a deeper midfield role when required. That versatility could make him an attractive option for Arsenal, particularly given Christian Nørgaard’s expected departure.

Arsenal’s struggles in transition during the latter stages of the season highlighted the need for greater dynamism in central areas, and the Frenchman’s progressive style of play could help address that issue while adding energy and athleticism to Mikel Arteta’s midfield.

Statistically, Koné ranked among the best passers in Serie A last season, with a 90.4% passing success rate.

His 61.7% success rate on dribbles also highlights his ability to wriggle past challenges and his reliability in warding them off during the build-up.

With two years left on his contract, Koné could hand Arsenal a cheaper midfield alternative to their other targets, as Roma are likely to consider offers around his £43m Transfermarkt valuation.