“Couldn’t be replaced” – Manager explains blocking Chelsea transfer, for now

AS Roma manager Gian Piero Gasperini says he’s happy that Manu Koné is still at the club amid a late attempt from Chelsea in the summer window.

The midfielder initially joined the Serie A side on loan from Borussia Mönchengladbach in 2024 and made his stay permanent the following year.

His development and performances at Roma had caught the attention of a few clubs. This includes Chelsea.

Valentín Barco and Jordan Henderson were the two midfielders to join the Premier League side during the last window.

On deadline day, Chelsea sold Enzo Fernández to Manchester City and made attempts to sign the France international and AS Monaco’s Lamine Camara. In the end, Xabi Alonso’s side didn’t sign either.

Towards the end of the window, there were suggestions in Italy that Gasperini was threatening to leave if Roma sold Koné to the west London club.

Chelsea approach already confirmed 

However, AS Roma sporting director Tony D’Amico was quick to deny this. The official had also confirmed the Blues’ attempt to sign the 25-year-old.

He said: “Manu Koné at Chelsea, there was nothing. Not even an offer. There were informative contacts with Chelsea on the last day of the transfer window. No official offers arrived to approach the player. I read that Gasperini would resign, an ultimatum, but in reality, there was nothing. There were phone calls, but no ultimatum from the manager.”

Gian Piero Gasperini has been speaking to Sky Italia and journalist Gianluca Di Marzio has relayed his comments.

The manager talks about a late approach to snatch Koné away from the Giallorossi, and he’s most likely referring to Chelsea’s attempt.

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

“He couldn’t be replaced, needless to say, there was nothing feasible on the table. I’m glad it turned out this way; he’ll have the chance to increase his value.”

Increase in value not surprising 

Manu Koné, who was part of the France squad at the World Cup, has featured in every fixture for AS Roma this season.

He played 375 minutes from six matches, scoring two goals. His good start to the season has helped him make it New France manager Zinedine Zidane’s first squad.

Last month, Sport Witness covered a report from Italy explaining that the Frenchman’s price could rise to €100m.

Transfermarkt value the payer at €60m, a €10m jump since the end of last season. If he continues to shine, it won’t be surprising his value and Roma’s price keep rising.

Then a sale will become more palatable for Roma.