Arsenal Urged to Complete £43m Midfield Signing as Club Edges Closer to Summer Deal

Arsenal have received fresh encouragement in their pursuit of French midfielder Manu Kone, with former Gunners star Emmanuel Petit backing the club to complete a move for the highly rated Roma player this summer.

Mikel Arteta is eager to strengthen his midfield ahead of the 2026/27 campaign, and sporting director Andrea Berta has been assessing several options as Arsenal continue their recruitment drive. While Newcastle United captain Bruno Guimaraes remains a priority target, Kone has also emerged as a leading candidate following an impressive season for Roma and his standout performances for France at the World Cup.

The 25-year-old has played a key role in France’s run to the semi-finals, starting four of the team’s six matches and showcasing the energy, composure and defensive awareness that have attracted interest from several top European clubs.

According to reports in Italy, Arsenal have already held positive discussions with Kone’s representatives and are believed to have reached an agreement on personal terms. The next stage of the negotiations will focus on agreeing a transfer fee with Roma, who are understood to value the midfielder at around £43 million.

Petit believes Kone possesses the qualities needed to succeed in the Premier League and feels he would fit seamlessly into Arteta’s tactical system. The former Arsenal midfielder described the France international as a player capable of adding balance, athleticism and technical quality to the squad.

If Arsenal can reach an agreement with Roma, Kone could become another significant addition as the Premier League champions continue building a squad capable of defending their domestic crown and challenging for Champions League glory.