Real Madrid monitoring Roma's Kone but transfer only likely on one condition
Quick summary
Real Madrid are tracking Roma midfielder Manu Koné, but a transfer is only likely if a specific condition is met, reportedly related to the Spanish club's midfield plans or a replacement scenario.
Full article
Attributed to original sourceReports in Spain claim that Real Madrid are admirers of Roma midfielder Manu Kone and that Jose Mourinho’s staff have been keeping a close eye on him over the last few weeks, but a late transfer in the final week of the summer transfer window depends on the LaLiga club selling players first.
Report: Real Madrid interested in Roma’s Kone According to Spanish outlet AS , Kone has been on Madrid’s radar for some time now. Thursday’s report claims that scouts have been to watch him in the flesh and that the club’s international scouting department kept a close eye on him during Roma’s 4-0 win over Fiorentina over the weekend, while keeping tabs on Viola loanee Franco Mastantuono.
ROME, ITALY – OCTOBER 29: Manu Kone of AS Roma gestures during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Parma Calcio 1913 at Stadio Olimpico on October 29, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images) Kone has been linked with some of Europe’s most prestigious clubs over the course of the summer, particularly during his impressive 2026 World Cup campaign, but as things stand, Roma have not received any concrete offers for the 26-year-old.
According to the AS report, Madrid are also unlikely to make an offer in the final week of the summer transfer window unless they end up selling one of their own midfielders first.
Mourinho reportedly considers his squad to be set for the season, and AS hints that the club shares the same stance.
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What happened
Real Madrid have identified Roma's Manu Koné as a target but will only move if certain conditions are met, according to reports. The French midfielder has impressed in Serie A and is seen as a potential midfield reinforcement. However, Real Madrid's pursuit appears contingent on developments elsewhere in their squad, likely tied to departures or a specific midfield reshuffle. Roma are understood to value Koné highly and would demand a significant fee.
Chance analysis
Real Madrid's interest in Manu Koné reflects their long-standing strategy of targeting young, high-ceiling midfielders before they reach peak market value. The Frenchman has been one of Roma's most consistent performers in Serie A, offering box-to-box dynamism that fits Los Blancos' profile. The conditional nature of the pursuit suggests Real Madrid are keeping options open rather than committing fully, with the condition likely tied to a future sale or tactical reshuffle that could open space in their midfield.
Conditional pursuit creates uncertainty around Koné's Roma future and signals Real Madrid may add midfield depth if a pathway opens.