Roma eye Rafael Leao as Gasperini pursues left-wing target

Manchester United has slowed its pursuit of Roma midfielder Manu Koné after initial intensive monitoring of the 2001-born France international, according to The Telegraph. The delay stems from doubts within the Manchester United hierarchy over whether the player justifies an outlay of at least €60 million. This does not represent a definitive withdrawal from the race, but rather a period of careful reflection on whether Koné represents the right investment for the club. Koné has attracted attention from top European clubs following an impressive World Cup campaign with France. Manager Gian Piero Gasperini considers him a fundamental piece of Roma's midfield setup, yet the club could be open to a sale of the right magnitude to help address financial fair play obligations. Manchester United had been the most attentive suitor to date, but the recent hesitation signals uncertainty about committing such a significant fee to the midfielder's profile.

Manu Koné's future remains uncertain as Roma weigh selling the midfielder against Manchester United's hesitation to commit. The club is prepared to listen to offers for one of Europe's strongest central midfielders, with both Al Ahli and Manchester United showing interest. However, neither club has moved decisively. At Old Trafford, not all senior figures support investing in the French midfielder. According to the Telegraph, perplex­ities exist within the English club over pursuing Koné, and a move worth approximately 60 million euros has not secured unanimous backing from United's hierarchy. Roma is keen to monetise a significant asset to address Financial Fair Play constraints, but concrete bids have been slow to arrive. The delay reflects genuine uncertainty at Manchester United rather than a definitive rejection. The Red Devils continue to monitor Koné as a target, but the club intends to evaluate every aspect of a potential deal before tabling a formal offer. This represents a slowdown in proceedings rather than an outright termination of discussions.

A rejected offer could indirectly benefit Roma's transfer strategy. The club's sporting director D'Amico is prioritising a left winger to reinforce Gasperini's squad, with Nusa as the primary target. El Mala, a German talent born in 2006, had emerged as an alternative option but has declined the move, reportedly setting his sights only on Borussia Dortmund instead. This rejection may open a path to Nusa after all. According to Sky Sport DE, Leipzig have begun eyeing El Mala to strengthen their attacking department. Should the 2006-born player arrive at Leipzig, the German club's transfer strategy could shift, potentially making Nusa available and easing his departure to Roma. However, caution is warranted: Leipzig have not signalled willingness to sell Nusa and continue to view him as an important piece of their squad. Leipzig have also not yet tabled an official offer for El Mala, with only an initial interest registered. Transfer markets thrive on interconnected moves, and the potential link between El Mala and Nusa could prove pivotal for Roma's window.