
Transfer window closes: Koné stays after Chelsea approach, El Aynaoui departs for Leipzig
Roma's transfer window closed on 1 September with Manu Koné remaining at the club after Chelsea made late contact. The midfielder, who had generated concern earlier in the day, will stay as one of the cornerstones of Gian Piero Gasperini's project. Chelsea's calls were rejected immediately, with no formal offer or advanced negotiations reaching Roma. Gasperini had made his position clear after the Lecce match, stating his determination to keep Koné at all costs, and that stance held firm through the closing hours. Two late departures were confirmed. Neil El Aynaoui joined RB Leipzig on a four-million-euro loan with a €25 million purchase option and a percentage on future resale. Mattia Mannini also left Trigoria, moving to Benevento on loan with a €1.5 million purchase option, with Roma retaining 30 per cent of any future sale. Robinio Vaz is heading to Hull City, though the move awaits official confirmation. Jamie Leweling and Jamie Bynoe-Gittens will not wear Roma colours; both pursuits in the final days proved impossible. Chelsea refused to negotiate a loan arrangement for Bynoe-Gittens, making a deal with Roma unfeasible, while the Leweling attempt failed to complete. Radio commentary offered scepticism about squad depth. Angelo Mangiante said of Fenerbahçe's stance on Oosterwolde: "Fenerbahçe was suggesting that Oosterwolde could play a match within two weeks. Roma wanted to get medical examinations done already." Alessandro Vocalelli added: "I don't trust Dybala's condition. I hope the Argentine holds up as long as possible."





