Roma close to signing Castro from Bologna; arrival at Ciampino expected today or tomorrow

Manu Koné remains at the centre of transfer speculation at Roma, with Manchester United pressing to bring the midfielder to Old Trafford following his impressive World Cup performance. No formal offer has yet reached the club, but United's interest is active. The Red Devils have already invested approximately 100 million euros combined in Tielemans and Santo, and must now prioritise outgoings before moving decisively for Koné. Michael Carrick's immediate focus is securing a left winger and identifying a third midfield reinforcement. Mason Mount, the English midfielder, could shift into that third midfield role internally—a solution that might diminish United's pursuit of Koné. Tchouaméni remains United's primary midfield target. The evolving situation at Old Trafford means Roma's chances of retaining Koné depend partly on developments elsewhere in the Premier League's transfer market.

Manu Koné's future at Roma remains uncertain as Manchester United cool their interest in the midfielder. The Red Devils have shown attention alongside Al Ahli, but internal doubts and competing priorities have complicated the pursuit. Roma value the French midfielder at €60 million, a fee no club has yet matched. Manchester United's reluctance stems partly from recent spending: after investing approximately €100 million combined in Tielemans and Santos, the club must focus on outgoings first. Manager Carrick also wants to complete the squad with a left-winger before exploring further midfield reinforcements, and the possibility of standing pat entirely has not been ruled out. Mason Mount's potential repositioning could prove pivotal in determining Koné's prospects. The English midfielder might shift into the third central midfield role United are seeking, offering an internal solution that would reduce the need for outside recruitment. Even if Mount fills that gap, Koné would remain a fallback option—though United's real target is Aurélien Tchouameni, a considerably more expensive prospect. With each passing day, a Premier League move appears less likely for the Roma midfielder.

Bologna are advancing negotiations to sign Artem Dovbyk from Roma on loan until 2027, with all parties expressing confidence in reaching a conclusion. The transfer hinges on final approval from the Ukrainian striker, who has spoken with Bologna manager Domenico Tedesco and is considering the move to Emilia-Romagna. Roma are simultaneously working to complete the signing of Santiago Castro from Bologna for approximately €35 million, with the club hoping to finalise that deal imminently. Dovbyk no longer features in Gian Piero Gasperini's plans at Roma, and Castro's imminent arrival would further limit his opportunities. The 34-year-old, who won the Pichichi award as La Liga's top scorer, is also being tracked by Fiorentina, who have made initial enquiries and could accelerate their interest if Kean departs. Roma have proposed a loan formula for Dovbyk, though the player's high salary presents a challenge for Bologna to structure the deal sustainably. The call between Tedesco and Dovbyk went well, with both clubs optimistic of resolving the move. Dovbyk has not yet given his final consent to the transfer.