Chelsea and Manchester United are keeping tabs on Kouadio Kone, who could leave Borussia Monchengladbach for €45 million.
According to Fichajes, Chelsea and Manchester United are among the teams chasing Kouadio Kone in the summer. The French midfield prospect could leave Borussia Monchengladbach after the season if suitors pay the €45 million asking price.
Kouadio Kone continues to develop into a formidable midfielder and has the attention of several top clubs. While only being 21 years old, the Frenchman has become one of Borussia Monchengladbach’s most important stars this season.
Gladbach may have rejected a few approaches in January when some Premier League clubs were keen. Those teams could return with another attempt in the summer. And the Bundesliga outfit could open their doors for a sale at their price.
Kone has a contract until 2025, meaning Gladbach are under no pressure to sell the French midfield prospect. However, if clubs cough up €45 million for the 21-year-old, the Bundesliga side might sanction a move. The Frenchman has no shortage of interest, but Premier League duo Chelsea and Manchester United are possibly ahead of the queue.
Chelsea have spent over €600 million on various players in the last two transfer windows and will continue strengthening their squad in the next one. After significantly bolstering their defence and attack in that period, the Blues will focus on bringing in a striker and midfielder.
From their recent purchases, co-owner Todd Boehly wants players of a certain age profile, and Kone certainly fits that range. Chelsea have not baulked at asking prices and may look ready to pay Gladbach’s €45 million demand.
Chelsea view Kone as the ideal replacement for N’Golo Kante, who could depart the club if the two parties cannot agree on a contract extension. Moreover, the 21-year-old could get a good platform at Stamford Bridge alongside World Cup winner Enzo Fernandez to get into the French national side in the future.
Kone dreams of playing for a side like Chelsea or Real Madrid, but he could also consider the interest from Manchester United. Erik ten Hag is seriously considering signing a long-term midfield prospect to bolster the position.
While Casemiro has enhanced their performances this season, ten Hag wants a rotational option that could grow into the role. Ideally, Manchester United want a new defensive midfielder to cover for the Brazilian now and become a starter in the future.
Manchester United could offer players Champions League football next season. That factor could come into play, considering Chelsea are unlikely to finish in the top four. However, the Blues have a reputation and could attract the best players, including Kone.
An interesting battle could brew for Kone in the summer, with the asking price well within the range of these clubs. Kone could become a key signing for Chelsea or Manchester United, but where he might go remains the question.
