Inter Milan to revive summer pursuit of Roma's Manu Koné
Inter Milan are preparing to renew their interest in signing AS Roma midfielder Manu Koné when the transfer window opens, according to reports from Italy. The Serie A champions had a bid worth around 40 million euros plus bonuses rejected last August, but believe the financial pressures on Roma could force a sale this summer.
The deal was initially discussed on August 14 last year, after Inter failed to secure Ademola Lookman from Atalanta. Inter's sporting director, Piero Ausilio, turned his attention to Koné and approached Roma's then-director, Ricky Massara. While Massara was reportedly open to the sale, which would have funded other moves for Roma, a strong negative reaction from the club's supporters led owners the Friedkin Group to block the transfer before it could develop.
However, the situation has shifted significantly. Roma must comply with Financial Fair Play regulations by June 30 and may be compelled to sell a major asset, particularly if they fail to secure a top-four finish and Champions League qualification. Koné, a 23-year-old French international, is viewed as one of the club's most valuable and marketable players. His potential availability has kept him firmly on Inter's radar as a primary target for their midfield reinforcement.
Inter's manager, Cristian Chivu, is understood to be keen on adding a more physical presence to his midfield. Last summer, he reportedly sought to transition the team's formation from a 3-5-2 to a 3-4-2-1, with a player of Koné's profile as a key component. While those tactical changes were postponed, the ambition remains, and winning the Serie A title would strengthen Chivu's hand in requesting specific signings from the club's hierarchy.
The potential transfer is part of a wider web of possible dealings between the two clubs. Roma maintain an interest in Inter's Davide Frattesi, who is expected to leave Milan at season's end, and versatile wing-back Carlos Augusto. Conversely, Inter are monitoring the situations of Roma's Zeki Celik and Lorenzo Pellegrini, both of whom are out of contract in 2025 and could be available for reduced fees. Celik is seen as a potential long-term replacement for veteran Matteo Darmian.
Financing a move for Koné could be influenced by significant outgoings at Inter. The club's new owners, Oaktree Capital, have indicated support for major signings, but substantial sales are also anticipated. The future of defender Alessandro Bastoni is uncertain, with Barcelona showing strong interest. An offer between 60 and 70 million euros could persuade Inter to sell, which would provide a major war chest and potentially allow Chivu to consider more radical tactical shifts, including a switch to a back four.
For Roma, the decision on Koné will be dictated by finance and sporting achievement. His departure would represent a significant loss to their project under Daniele De Rossi, but the necessity to balance the books may override sporting desires. The coming weeks, culminating in the end of the season and the opening of the transfer window, will determine whether the long-standing interest from Inter finally culminates in a formal offer and an agreement.
