Arsenal are firmly in the transfer picture for Roma midfielder Manu Kone, who has made his preference for a Premier League move abundantly clear.
According to Italian outlet Quotidiano Sportivo, the 25-year-old has a strong desire to join the Gunners during this summer’s transfer window.
Atletico Madrid have already registered their interest in signing Kone from the Giallorossi, but the France international is not tempted by a move to Spain.
Kone believes joining Arsenal would be the right step as he enters the prime of his career, and Roma are seeking £39 million for his services.
The Italian club need to raise funds and balance their financial books, preferably before June 30, adding urgency to any potential deal.
Roma finished third in Serie A last season, securing a return to the Champions League after a long absence, which makes holding onto key assets more difficult this summer.
Kone has been linked with Premier League clubs since his time at Borussia Monchengladbach, before he moved to Rome and established himself as an undisputed starter.
The Frenchman is capable of playing as a defensive or central midfielder, but has generally operated as the left-sided number 8 for the Giallorossi during his time there.
His numbers from last season make compelling reading, with Kone completing 90% of his passes in Serie A while winning 5 duels per outing.
The former Monchengladbach man also registered close to 2 tackles and 5 recoveries per appearance, demonstrating his tireless work rate throughout the campaign.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta values high pressing and technical midfielders, and Kone’s profile fits the Gunners’ system closely given his energy and passing quality.
Arsenal already have Declan Rice, Martin Zubimendi, Mikel Merino, and Myles Lewis-Skelly as specialist midfield options, with Christian Norgaard most likely to leave the club in the coming weeks.
Kone is currently representing France at the World Cup, and has reportedly given the green light to a move to north London should a deal be agreed.
At £39 million, Arsenal could consider the transfer a shrewd piece of business given Kone’s age, versatility, and consistent performances across both club and international football.