Arsenal have reportedly taken a significant step forward in their pursuit of Manu Kone after reaching an agreement on personal terms with the France international.
The AS Roma midfielder has emerged as a serious target for Mikel Arteta's side, with reports in Italy suggesting the Gunners are now preparing the structure of an official bid.
Kone is currently with France at the FIFA World Cup and remains one of the most highly-rated midfielders in Serie A following another impressive campaign in Rome. Arsenal's interest has been known for several weeks, but negotiations now appear to be entering a more advanced phase.
Personal terms reportedly agreed
According to Corriere della Sera, Kone had initially hoped to secure a move to Paris Saint-Germain and even rejected interest from Atletico Madrid while waiting for a possible approach.
However, with PSG not pursuing a deal, Arsenal have been able to accelerate discussions.
The report claims that Arsenal have now reached an agreement with the player's representatives regarding personal terms, removing one of the biggest obstacles to a transfer.
Attention is now shifting towards club-to-club negotiations, with Roma understood to be seeking at least €50m for the midfielder.
The Italian club's financial position could prove important. Roma are known to be looking at player sales before the end of June as they work to satisfy financial regulations, potentially strengthening Arsenal's negotiating position.
Why Arsenal like Manu Kone
Kone has developed into one of Serie A's most complete midfielders since arriving in Italy.
The French international combines physicality, ball-carrying ability and defensive awareness with the capacity to progress possession quickly through midfield.
Having followed Arsenal closely throughout the past season, one area where Arteta's side occasionally lacked variety was in central midfield transitions. Declan Rice often carried a significant responsibility both defensively and in moving the ball through the thirds.
Kone's profile offers something slightly different.
Rather than slowing the tempo and dictating play from deeper areas, the Roma midfielder is most effective when driving attacks forward and breaking opposition lines with progressive passing or carries.
Roma face major decision
Roma are reluctant to lose one of their most valuable assets, particularly after Kone became a key figure under Gian Piero Gasperini.
The midfielder has established himself as one of the first names on the team sheet and remains firmly in his prime years.
| Manu Kone Profile | Summer 2026 |
|---|---|
| Age | 25 |
| Club | AS Roma |
| Appearances for Roma | 82 |
| Goals & Assists | 10 |
Those numbers only tell part of the story. Kone’s influence is often measured through his work between the boxes, where he excels at winning possession and launching attacks.
However, Roma’s need to generate funds could ultimately force difficult decisions. That reality explains why Arsenal believe a deal remains achievable despite the player’s importance.
Key Points
- Arsenal have reportedly agreed personal terms with Manu Kone.
- Roma are believed to want at least €50m.
- PSG are not currently pursuing the midfielder.
- Arsenal are preparing the structure of a formal offer.
- Roma's financial situation could play a role in negotiations.
What's Next?
The next stage will be Arsenal's formal approach to Roma. Reports suggest the Gunners are now deciding both the timing and structure of their proposal.
Whether Roma hold firm on their €50m valuation remains to be seen. Much could depend on their financial position before the end of June and whether Arsenal can present a package that satisfies the Serie A club's requirements.
For now, personal terms appear to be in place, leaving negotiations between the clubs as the crucial hurdle to overcome.
Would Manu Kone be the ideal midfield addition for Arsenal, or should Mikel Arteta prioritise other areas of the squad this summer?
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