Manchester City has set its sights on Manu Koné from Roma as a strategic addition to enhance Enzo Maresca’s midfield options. Following the acquisition of Elliot Anderson for £116m and the impending £85m signing of Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille, Maresca regards Koné for his dynamic playing style, with an estimated transfer fee of around £50m.

The 25-year-old showcased his talent during the World Cup, participating in five matches and contributing to France's victories in all four games he started.

With the recent departure of Rodri to Barcelona for approximately £65m, adding Koné would infuse elite-level experience into the squad. Meanwhile, Anderson, who played alongside Declan Rice for England, made his Premier League debut for Newcastle in 2021, while Bouaddi, at just 18, remains relatively inexperienced.

Additionally, Tijjani Reijnders was sold to Al-Qadsiah for about £51m after a single season, and there are speculations that Nico González, a defensive midfielder, could follow suit before the transfer window closes on September 1.

City is also preparing an official bid for Enzo Fernández from Chelsea, although they are reportedly valuing him below the club’s £120m asking price.

In parallel, City is engaged in talks with Tottenham regarding a double deal for Savinho and Omar Marmoush, estimated at £150m. While no agreement has been finalized, negotiations are reportedly progressing positively, with Roberto De Zerbi believing both players will enhance squad depth.