Liverpool shortlist £86m Manu Kone as January midfield solution

Liverpool have identified AS Roma midfielder Manu Kone as a possible January transfer target, according to TEAMtalk. The 25-year-old French international is valued at £86 million and could be signed if the Reds formalise their interest, with Chelsea also previously linked.

  • Target: Manu Kone, AS Roma midfielder, valued at £86m
  • Window: January transfer window
  • Competition: Chelsea had shown interest but now prioritise Alex Scott
  • Why: Liverpool's midfield bypassed in 6-3 Champions League win over LASK
  • Status: Shortlisted, according to reports

Deal details

Liverpool are planning to revamp their engine room and will be in the transfer market in January, having identified Kone as a potential signing. The Reds were originally keen on Alex Scott, but Chelsea are believed to be leading the race for the Bournemouth star. Kone has emerged as an option after Roma's strong start to the season. The 25-year-old is valued at £86 million.

Kone is a crucial player for AS Roma, who are challenging for Serie A this year. It remains to be seen if manager Gian Piero Gasperini is prepared to let such a vital first-team asset leave midway through the campaign.

The French international was also on Chelsea's radar, but with Alex Scott now emerging as their priority, Liverpool could have a fairly straightforward path towards securing his signing if they materialise their interest in January.

Why Kone fits Liverpool's midfield rebuild

Liverpool's midfield was bypassed easily in their 6-3 Champions League win away at LASK midweek, raising concerns about depth and quality. Despite scoring six, the Reds conceded three relatively comfortable goals, and the ease with which they were played through highlighted a need for reinforcements.

Kone is exceptional in tight spaces, dictates tempo well in midfield and has a strong physical prowess to resist pressure. Defensively, he can win aerial and ground duels, works hard to close spaces down, and makes accurate tackles. With Alexis Mac Allister's future at Liverpool doubtful, they need to invest in a midfielder or two, and Kone's signing from AS Roma promises to be an excellent investment despite the £86 million price tag.

The 25-year-old's ability to operate under pressure and contribute defensively would address the exact issues exposed against LASK. Liverpool's current midfield options have been questioned, and Kone's profile suggests he could provide the physicality and technical security required to compete on multiple fronts.

Talking points

  • Is £86m too much for a midfielder who has never played in the Premier League? Kone's quality is clear, but the fee would make him one of Liverpool's most expensive signings ever.
  • Should Liverpool prioritise Alex Scott over Kone? Chelsea's interest in Scott complicates matters, but the Bournemouth man may be a more long-term option.
  • Can Liverpool afford to wait until January? Their midfield was exposed against LASK, and a poor run could force them into urgent action.
  • Will Roma sell mid-season? Gasperini's side are challenging for Serie A, and losing a key player could derail their title bid.

What happens next

Liverpool will continue their Premier League campaign before the January window opens, and their midfield performances will be scrutinised. The Reds must decide whether to formalise their interest in Kone or pursue alternatives. AS Roma's Serie A results and Gasperini's stance will determine whether a deal is feasible. Chelsea's pursuit of Alex Scott could remove a rival for Kone's signature, but the £86m valuation remains a significant hurdle.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Liverpool's January transfer target?

Liverpool have shortlisted AS Roma midfielder Manu Kone as a potential January target, according to TEAMtalk.

How much is Manu Kone worth?

Kone is valued at £86 million.

Are Chelsea also interested in Manu Kone?

Chelsea had shown interest in Kone, but they now prioritise Alex Scott, which could give Liverpool a clearer run at the Roma midfielder.

Filed under: Transfer News | LA Premier League Home