Chelsea open talks with Roma to sign Manu Koné | OneFootball

Chelsea are stepping up their pursuit of France international Manu Koné (25) on deadline day, according to a report from Foot Mercato.

It was previously reported this summer that Koné would be keen to join a major Premier League side. The 25-year-old notably impressed with a couple of eye-catching performances for France at the 2026 World Cup. Manchester United were said to be keen on signing him, until they eventually opted to sign Carlos Baleba from Brighton.

L’Equipe reported on Monday that Chelsea target Lamine Camara, who ran the show last night against Marseille, was actually the Blues’ plan B should they fail to land their priority target. It would seem that Koné is the priority, with interest in Camara cooling over the course of the past 24 hours.

Attempts to sign Koné are now being stepped up, Foot Mercato understands. Chelsea have officially made contact with AS Roma. Talks are now ongoing.

GFFN | Luke Entwistle