Roma step up Greenwood push as Gasperini eyes swift close

Manu Koné delivered a commanding display in France's quarter-final victory over Morocco, controlling the midfield with authority and winning plaudits from both critics and teammates. The Roma midfielder was introduced as a starter in the group stage against Iraq before establishing himself as a key figure for Didier Deschamps' side. After Aurélien Tchouameni was injured, Koné returned to the starting lineup for the knockout rounds, including a strong performance against Paraguay in the last-16 before his standout showing in the Morocco match. Against Morocco, Koné completed 35 of 38 passes for 92% accuracy, delivered one key pass, attempted one shot, recorded six recoveries and won four duels during 71 minutes on the pitch. His display earned widespread French media praise, with suggestions he should start in the semi-final and some naming him man of the match. Teammate Adrien Rabiot praised their partnership after the match, saying: "I and Manu were devastating, we devoured them." Koné reflected on his experience: "It's beautiful to play with Olise, Dembélé, Mbappé and Barcola. Great team, we're happy." The performances have intensified transfer speculation around the Roma midfielder. After Inter's courtship last summer and Atlético Madrid's rejected offer at the end of the season, Manchester United has reportedly intensified interest. Roma expect Koné to return to training on Monday following his World Cup campaign.

Roma are preparing a concrete move for Belgian forward Moreira, a 2004-born prospect, with an offer of €30 million plus 10 per cent of any future resale. However, the package falls short of Strasbourg's valuation, with the French club demanding roughly €50 million. Agent Jorge Mendes is working to find a formula that will persuade Strasbourg to negotiate. Moreira was left on the bench in a recent match and has just been eliminated from the World Cup by Spain. The teenager has emerged as Roma's primary attacking target this window. The gap between the two clubs' valuations remains substantial, though Mendes' involvement suggests ongoing dialogue. Moreira's availability for transfer discussions was constrained while competing in the World Cup; his elimination means he can now focus fully on his future and potential moves.

Roma are exploring a move for Alejandro Garnacho following the Mason Greenwood situation, with director Tony D'Amico having made contact with the winger's representatives. Chelsea regard Garnacho as available, but the club's preference is a permanent sale. Roma have no intention or financial capacity to pursue a permanent deal at present, leaving a loan move as the sole realistic option under discussion. Work continues behind the scenes on other right-wing targets classified as Champions League-calibre players. Leipzig's Nusa and Paris Saint-Germain's Mbaye are under consideration, while Ajax's Godts—who operates mainly on the left—has resurfaced as a possibility. Director D'Amico has also sounded out Dan Ndoye and Eintracht Frankfurt's Can Uzun, an emerging international playmaker. Como's Diao, who could leave the club, remains on the radar despite competition from Galatasaray. Manu Koné has impressed at international level with France, bolstering his standing at the club. Meanwhile, Roma have experienced a significant uptick in season-ticket sales, signalling renewed supporter confidence heading into the new campaign.