While the World Cup continues to play out, Arsenal are looking to bolster its squad in the transfer window ahead of their Premier League title defence
Arsenal transfer target Manu Kone is intent on joining Mikel Arteta’s side. It’s been claimed that the Gunners have already agreed personal terms with the Roma midfielder, and he has made joining the Premier League winners his clear preference.
Gunners fans will have plenty of opportunity to see the 25-year-old in the World Cup, as he was deployed next to Adrien Rabiot in the French midfield. He looks set to be handed more opportunities in the USA, Canada and Mexico.
Considering how interested Arsenal are in his services, he may soon be wearing red and white for the defending Premier League champions. While the likes of Atletico Madrid have also been credited with an interest, it’s understood he only wants to join Arsenal.
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That is according to Italian outlet Quotidiano Sportivo, who state “the player’s desire is clear” about his future – he only wants to join Arsenal.
It’s understood Roma value him at around £43million, but may also be swayed by an offer of £39m. The Gunners made an effort to sign him in January, but the Serie A heavyweights were not willing to entertain a sale in the middle of the campaign.
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This summer, they are willing to part ways to raise more cash. Despite the obvious interest, Arsenal are yet to make a formal offer for his services, according to sources in Italy.
However, Italian outlet Corriere della Sera, have also stated Arsenal have held talks with his representatives and agreed personal terms with him. Any move is expected to be finalised after the World Cup.
Kone has also said so himself when asked about his future. He recently said: “Honestly, right now I’m only thinking about the World Cup.
“It’s my first major international competition, a tournament I’ve always dreamed of playing in. I want to stay focused exclusively on that,” before adding, “We’ll talk about the future after the World Cup and see what happens.”
His call-up to Les Bleus’ World Cup squad has only enhanced his value. He did not feature in their opening 3-1 victory over Senegal, but he played the full 90 minutes in their convincing 3-0 win over Iraq.
Last season, Kone contributed two goals and three assists in 37 appearances for Roma. The defensive midfielder would add vital depth to Arteta’s midfield and would compete with Declan Rice, Martin Zubimendi, Christian Norgaard and Myles Lewis-Skelly for a place.
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