Chelsea’s failed Manu Koné move could become far more expensive as Roma star’s value rises

Chelsea’s failed deadline-day attempt to sign Manu Koné could prove costly, with AS Roma manager Gian Piero Gasperini delighted the midfielder remained in Italy.

The Blues explored a move for Koné during the final hours of the summer transfer window after selling Enzo Fernández to Manchester City.

Chelsea also considered Monaco midfielder Lamine Camara, but Xabi Alonso ultimately ended deadline day without another midfield addition.

Roma sporting director Tony D’Amico has already confirmed Chelsea made contact regarding Koné, although he insisted no formal offer arrived.

Speaking to Sky Italia, Gasperini has now addressed the late interest in his midfielder.

“Manu Koné? There was some interest in the final hours of the summer transfer window, but he stayed with us,” Gasperini said.

The Roma manager explained that losing Koné so late would have created a major problem because there was no realistic opportunity to replace him.

“He couldn’t be replaced, needless to say, there was nothing feasible on the table,” he added.

“I’m glad it turned out this way; he’ll have the chance to increase his value.”

That final comment could prove particularly relevant for Chelsea.

Koné has started the season strongly for Roma, playing in all six of their matches and scoring twice across 375 minutes.

His performances have also earned him a place in Zinedine Zidane’s first France squad.

The 25-year-old was already highly valued during the summer, but reports in Italy have suggested Roma’s asking price could eventually rise towards €100million.

Transfermarkt currently values Koné at €60m, representing a €10m increase since the end of last season.

Continued strong performances for Roma and France would only strengthen the Italian club’s negotiating position.

Chelsea’s interest therefore arrived at what could prove to have been their best opportunity to secure Koné for a more reasonable price.

Roma were unwilling to lose such an important midfielder without a replacement during the final hours of the window.

That situation could change in a future transfer window, particularly if the Serie A club have enough time to identify a successor.

However, Gasperini’s prediction is already beginning to look accurate: Koné’s stock is rising, and Chelsea may have to pay considerably more if they decide to return.

Koné will remain an important part of Gasperini’s Roma side as he attempts to build on his impressive start to the campaign.

Chelsea’s midfield plans will be worth monitoring ahead of 2027 after they failed to replace Fernández with either Koné or Camara.

Roma may eventually become more receptive to a sale if Koné’s valuation continues to rise, but any renewed Chelsea approach could now require a substantially larger investment than it would have during the summer.