Roma push for Gittens and Leweling after blocking Koné's Chelsea move
Quick summary
Roma are targeting Borussia Dortmund winger Jamie Gittens and Stuttgart's Jamie Leweling, while having turned down a Chelsea approach for midfielder Manu Koné.
Full article
Attributed to original sourceSky Sport Italia confirms that Roma have blocked Manu Koné’s transfer to Chelsea, but the Giallorossi remain interested in the Blues’ winger Jamie Gittens and VfB Stuttgart’s Jamie Leweling.
Roma are unwilling to sell their midfield star Manu Koné, and Sky Sport Italia, after Gazzetta, confirms that the Giallorossi have blocked the Frenchman’s potential transfer to Chelsea.
Roma still want Gittens from Chelsea PARIS, FRANCE – NOVEMBER 13: Manu Kone of France in action during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between France and Ukraine at Parc des Princes on November 13, 2025 in Paris, France. (Photo by Franco Arland/Getty Images) The negotiations between the two clubs were reportedly carried forward by the owners of Chelsea and Roma, but Gasperini and sporting director Tony D’Amico strongly opposed the transfer.
It was reported that Chelsea were ready to send Gittens, a long-time Roma target, on loan to the Olimpico as part of the deal. After blocking the Koné deal, the Giallorossi remain interested in a potential temporary move for Gittens.
HONG KONG, CHINA – AUGUST 5: Jamie Gittens of Chelsea FC reacts during the preseason friendly between Chelsea and Juventus at the Kai Tak Stadium on August 5, 2026 in Hong Kong, China. (Photo by Yu Chun Christopher Wong/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images) According to Sky, Roma will also make a final attempt to sign Stuttgart’s winger Leweling, but that appears to be a difficult task, as the Germany international has already rejected an offer from the Giallorossi.
Transfer expert Florian Plettenberg added on X : “Unless something unexpected happens, Jamie Leweling will stay at VfB Stuttgart. The 25 y/o Germany international has rejected all offers, including one from AS Roma. Everton also made a concrete offer late last night, but a stay is now expected.”
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What happened
Roma are actively working on reinforcements in attack, with Borussia Dortmund's Jamie Gittens and VfB Stuttgart's Jamie Leweling both on their radar. The Giallorossi are also holding firm on Manu Koné, rejecting an approach from Chelsea for the French midfielder. Koné, who joined Roma from Borussia Mönchengladbach, has attracted Premier League interest but the club view him as a key part of their project. Roma appear to be reshaping their squad this window, looking to add pace and goals in wide areas while protecting their midfield core.
Chance analysis
Roma are showing a clear two-pronged strategy in this window: reinforce the wide attacking positions with dynamic, young wingers, and resist outside pressure to sell one of their prized midfield assets. Holding onto Koné signals a sporting project built around continuity rather than a fire-sale, while targets like Gittens and Leweling fit the profile of players who can thrive in Gasperini's system. The decision to block Chelsea underlines Roma's growing confidence in their negotiating position, even with Premier League clubs circling.
Roma's attack could receive a significant boost if Gittens or Leweling arrives, while Koné's confirmed stay stabilizes their midfield.