Al-Hilal in direct contact with Roma for Manchester United target Kone
Quick summary
Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal have made direct contact with Roma over midfielder Kone, who is also a target for Manchester United.
Full article
Attributed to original sourceRoma have no shortage of suitors for midfielder Manu Kone, as Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Hilal are reportedly in direct contact with the Giallorossi over a potential deal for the France international, who is also of interest to Manchester United.
Al-Hilal could rival Manchester United for Roma’s Kone Kone impressed with his performances for the France national team during the 2026 World Cup in North America, which came after a solid 2025-26 campaign with Roma, resulting in Champions League qualification at the end of the term.
Recent reports claim that Manchester United have held formal discussions with Roma over a possible deal for Kone, who is said to be valued in the region of €60m. Reigning Premier League champions Arsenal have also been rumoured to be interested, as are LaLiga heavyweights Atletico Madrid.
SASSUOLO, ITALY – OCTOBER 26: Manu Kone of AS Roma celebrates victory after the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and AS Roma at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on October 26, 2025 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images) However, according to the latest updates from Sky Sport in Switzerland, Simone Inzaghi’s Al-Hilal have also stepped forwards with an approach to Roma. The Saudi side are said to be in direct contact with the Giallorossi to enquire about the midfielder’s current situation.
Sky claims that Kone’s preference would be to a Premier League move, but that he has not closed the door to a new chapter in either LaLiga or the Saudi Pro League.
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What happened
Al-Hilal have opened direct negotiations with Roma to sign Kone, a player who has also attracted interest from Premier League side Manchester United. The contact suggests Al-Hilal are looking to strengthen their squad with a European-based talent, potentially offering a lucrative financial package to outmaneuver Premier League suitors. Roma's willingness to engage indicates a possible sale is on the table, though the club will weigh the financial offer against sporting considerations. Manchester United's parallel interest adds competitive tension to the negotiation.
Chance analysis
Al-Hilal entering direct talks signals serious intent and a likely lucrative financial offer, which could pressure Roma into accepting a sale. For Manchester United, increased competition from Saudi Arabia raises the cost and difficulty of any potential deal. Roma face a classic sell-vs-keep dilemma: Al-Hilal's financial power versus retaining a player of squad value. This is a typical Saudi-window disruption pattern targeting Serie A talent.
Roma may lose a squad player to Al-Hilal, weakening midfield depth; Manchester United face increased competition and cost for the target.
Monitor Roma's midfield options and Manchester United's midfield transfer targets, as Kone's availability could shift either club's summer recruitment priorities.