Al-Ahli's management has started direct talks with Italian club Roma to buy the remainder of French player Manu Kone's contract during the current summer transfer window, as reported by Italian newspaper Corriere dello Sport on Thursday. The newspaper clarified that Al-Ahli inquired from the player's agent and the club about the possibility of Kone moving to the Saudi Roshn League. Roma's management expressed willingness to sell the remainder of the midfielder's contract at a suitable price. Al-Ahli is competing with Atletico Madrid and Manchester United for the player, with the latter preparing to submit an offer worth 50 million euros. Kone (25 years old) has played 82 matches for Roma, scoring 4 goals and providing 6 assists, and previously played for German club Borussia Mönchengladbach in 2021 after graduating from the French Toulouse academy. He also participated with the French national team in 5 World Cup matches against Iraq, Norway, Paraguay, Morocco, and Spain, without scoring, and received one yellow card. His market value is estimated at 50 million euros according to Transfermarkt.

Al-Ahli club is preparing to strengthen its squad with new players in preparation for the upcoming season. These negotiations come within the framework of Al-Ahli's plans to reinforce its midfield with a high-profile international player. The Saudi club faces fierce competition from prestigious European clubs, most notably Manchester United and Atletico Madrid. The player's final decision will be pivotal in determining his next destination. Kone's future is linked to the financial value of the offer and his desire to move to the Saudi league, which is witnessing a massive influx of stars.