Arsenal play down links to Serie A midfielder

Arsenal have played down reports linking them with a move for AS Roma midfielder Manu Kone, despite claims of an agreement on personal terms.

Manu Kone with his teammates of AS Roma celebrates after scoring the opening goal during the Serie A match between AS Roma and US Sassuolo Calcio at Stadio Olimpico on January 10, 2026 — Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images

Corriere della Sera (via Sport Witness) claimed on Tuesday that Arsenal had agreed personal terms with AS Roma midfielder Manu Kone, adding that the Gunners were preparing to make a formal offer, with Roma demanding at least €50m.

This would fit with previous reports that Roma are trying to raise €50m by June 30th, with the Serie A club under pressure financially.

Manu Kone of AS Roma and Teun Koopmeiners of Juventus battle for possession during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Juventus FC at Stadio Olimpico — Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images

Yet Fabrizio Romano tells his YouTube channel that Arsenal are playing down the reports, claiming the Gunners are focusing on different kinds of players and profiles for their summer midfield additions.

Arsenal certainly seem to be in the market for a midfielder this summer, but it seems Kone isn’t a top target for the club at this stage.

Corriere della Sera have been one of the only outlets pushing the story so far, with little backing from other sources in the English media. With Romano now shooting down the claims, the rumours are quickly losing steam.

Manu Kone of AS Roma celebrates after scoring the team's second goal during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Genoa CFC at Stadio Olimpico on December 29, 2025 in Rome, Italy — Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images

Kone made 37 appearances for AS Roma in 2025/26, scoring two goals and assisting a further three.

The France international is currently away with his country at the World Cup, and he was named on the bench for their opening match against Senegal on Tuesday.

Mikel Arteta, Manager of Arsenal, looks on prior to the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Quarter-Final Second Leg match between Arsenal FC and Sporting Clube de Portugal at Arsenal Stadium on April 15, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images) — Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images

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