Roma Reject Chelsea Move as Manu Koné Stays in Gasperini’s Plans

Manu Koné will remain at Roma after the club rejected a late Chelsea approach before the transfer deadline, with sporting director D’Amico confirming the midfielder is central to Gian Piero Gasperini’s plans.

Roma squad update

D’Amico said Roma had made clear before the Fiorentina game that key players would be extremely difficult to sell so late in the window. Koné, signed from Borussia Monchengladbach, is now expected to play a major part across the season.

Gasperini was also determined to keep the France international. The Roma coach views Koné as a vital midfield option and did not want to lose him without an immediate replacement, particularly with Serie A commitments and Champions League football arriving together.

Roma did not land the specialist wide forward Gasperini had wanted during the market. Instead, the club believe Rodrigo Mora can grow into that position after his move from FC Porto, although D’Amico stressed the young attacker will need time and work before he is ready to operate regularly out wide.

There is also encouragement from within the squad. Academy player Emanuele Lulli has held onto a starting place ahead of new arrival Nahuel Molina, with Roma praising the youngster’s composure and technical level in a demanding environment.

Gasperini has further received a fitness lift ahead of the congested run. Dybala and Ndicka have overcome their respective muscle issues, after Ndicka caused concern when he withdrew during the warm-up before the Lecce match.

What happens next: Roma turn fully towards their Champions League opener against Fenerbahce, with Koné available and Gasperini able to call on Dybala and Ndicka again.