Three-time European champions Inter Milan have identified AS Roma midfielder Manu Kone as their leading target ahead of the summer transfer window, according to reports from Goal.
Inter are bracing for a busy summer, with several first-team players expected to leave the club at the end of the season.
The club is already planning ahead for a rebuild as they look to develop a squad capable of competing for major honours, both in Italy and in Europe.
The midfield is one area where the Nerazzurri are prepared to strengthen in the summer, especially with uncertainty surrounding the futures of Davide Frattesi and Hakan Çalhanoğlu.
Meanwhile, Andy Diouf, who only joined from French club Lens last summer, could also be moved on after struggling to make a strong impression in his debut campaign.
As a result, Inter have reignited their interest in Kone and are now ready to invest heavily to bring him to San Siro.
The Nerazzurri had previously attempted to sign the French midfielder last summer, but Roma were unwilling to sanction a departure and rejected Inter’s approach.
However, Roma could be more open to negotiations this summer, particularly as they could use the transfer fee to reinvest in other areas of the squad.
Kone has been one of Giallorossi’s most consistent performers this season, anchoring the midfield and making 34 appearances across all competitions, with 26 of them coming in the Serie A.
Inter are still keeping alternative options in mind. The club are exploring a shock move for Saudi-based midfielder Franck Kessie, while they are also monitoring Chelsea midfielder Andrey Santos.
The Nerazzurri may need to offload players to finance the deal and meet Roma’s €40 million valuation.
Should an agreement be sealed, Inter will be getting a top-level player who could strengthen their midfield for years to come.
