Koné edges towards exit as Atlético presses, but prefers Arsenal move

Midfielder Manu Koné delivered an impressive World Cup debut for France against Iraq, dominating the centre of the pitch with quality, intensity, and defensive work. The match was suspended for nearly two hours due to lightning and storms, but Koné maintained his high performance throughout all 90 minutes. He made six ball recoveries and completed 92% of his passes, including 94% accuracy in his own half, showcasing the defensive and rhythmic qualities that define his play. His performance has drawn worldwide attention and strengthened his reputation as a key midfielder. Koné's standout display comes at a critical moment for Roma, which needs to generate significant transfers before 30 June. The club hopes to secure at least 50 million euros from selling the French midfielder, with Arsenal, Chelsea, and Atlético Madrid reportedly interested. Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini values Koné's intensity and defensive presence for his tactical system, but high-profile World Cup performances typically increase a player's appeal to elite clubs and could drive up demands beyond Roma's initial asking price. An alternative source of funds would be selling Matías Soulé, which could allow Koné to remain in Rome. Gasperini has shown he wants to build his midfield around Koné, particularly with Champions League football on the horizon.

Roma's new sporting leadership has begun its transfer window work with two primary objectives. Paulo Dybala is close to signing a new contract after discussions over fixed wages and performance-related bonuses. Roma has proposed terms worth approximately 2.5 million euros plus bonus payments tied to on-field performance, though the Argentine forward is seeking a higher figure. Dybala awaits a call from Tony D'Amico to schedule a meeting with his agent Carlos Novel to narrow the gap and finalize the renewal. Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini's dream target is Mason Greenwood, and Roma is preparing its opening offer to Marseille for the English attacker. An agreement over wages — reported at around five million euros annually — has reportedly been reached with Greenwood's representatives. However, Marseille remains the significant obstacle, maintaining a valuation of 50 million euros with no indication of lowering their asking price. D'Amico arrived in Rome on Sunday evening and was at the Trigoria training ground alongside Gasperini on Monday, signaling the intensity of the club's summer planning. Additionally, Roma is addressing contract matters involving other squad members, with the situations of Çelik and Pellegrini also under discussion as part of the broader transfer strategy.

Roma's incoming transfer campaign will begin in July, with head coach Gasperini having compiled a list of targets to strengthen the squad. Greenwood remains the primary offensive objective, and an agreement with the player has been reached following several conversations with Gasperini. A contract worth just under 5 million euros per season is ready for the English forward. Marseille, however, maintains a firm asking price of 50 million euros plus 5 million in bonuses, with a 60 million euro release clause activating from 1 July. In defence, Roma has identified Ostigard, a Genoa centre-back currently on international duty with Norway, as a key target. Gasperini requested defensive reinforcements alongside the attack-focused pursuit of Greenwood. Roma is studying how to structure an offer for the forward, with plans to stagger payments to register a smaller figure in the accounts before 30 June, an arrangement that would also benefit Marseille by allowing them to record the full amount immediately. Negotiations between the clubs are expected to continue in coming days, with reports suggesting excellent relations and optimism filtering through regarding a potential deal.