UEFA Champions League
Atlético de Madrid is preparing for a very active winter market. In the offices of the Metropolitano, they are aware that the squad needs adjustments to face the second part of the season with guarantees, which implies both high-level reinforcements and some strategic exits.
In this scenario, a name emerges that excites the rojiblanco sports management in particular: Manu Koné. The French midfielder from Roma has become an absolute priority, although his arrival is subject to a very specific condition that could shape the entire colchonero market.
Manu Koné, the profile sought by Atlético de Madrid
Manu Koné fits perfectly into the type of player that Atlético de Madrid is looking for to strengthen its midfield. At 24 years old, the French international combines physicality, aggressiveness, tactical reading, and a notable ability to cover a lot of ground, qualities highly valued by Cholo Simeone.
He has established himself as a key piece at Roma, explaining why his market value is around €50 million. However, Atlético de Madrid sees a real opportunity in the market, especially due to the context of ongoing negotiations between both clubs. The rojiblanco club believes that Koné could become one of the best midfielders in Europe in the short term and wants to outmaneuver other giants on the continent.
His arrival would mean an immediate quality leap for the colchonero midfield, providing energy, balance, and a recovery capacity that would fit perfectly into the Argentine coach's scheme.
The cross-operation with Roma
The key to the operation lies in the discussions between Atlético de Madrid and Roma regarding Giacomo Raspadori. The Italian forward is not a priority in Simeone's plans, and his move to the Italian capital would create a favorable scenario to negotiate for Manu Koné.
At the Metropolitano, they are confident that this cross-operation will significantly reduce the cost of the French midfielder. Including Raspadori in the negotiation would lower Roma's financial demand, making a signing that would otherwise be very challenging in January feasible.

Italy views this approach favorably, as Raspadori meets Roma's offensive needs. This has led to discreet but optimistic discussions, always awaiting the definitive move to unlock the operation.
The key condition: Conor Gallagher's departure
For Manu Koné to arrive at Atlético de Madrid, there must first be a departure. The identified player is Conor Gallagher. The English midfielder has had an important role in the team's rotation but has not solidified as an undisputed starter.
Gallagher has several offers from the Premier League, where his profile remains highly valued. Atlético de Madrid does not rule out his departure if it allows financing a strategic signing like Koné. The operation is assessed from both a sporting and economic perspective, understanding that the Frenchman offers greater growth potential and fits better into the medium-term project.
If Gallagher's sale is finalized in the coming weeks, Atlético de Madrid will go all out for Manu Koné. If the deal is sealed, the colchonero club would make one of the big winter market coups and take a significant step in building a competitive midfield for the present and future.
This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, La condición del Atlético para ir a por Manu Koné
