In a recent segment on Youtube, renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano claimed that Chelsea are hoping to land Borussia Monchengladbach midfielder Manu Kone. Romano said,
“It’s my understanding that three clubs in the moment are leading the race for Manu Kone, one for sure is Chelsea. Chelsea will be there. Manchester United are following the player too, so Chelsea, Man United and PSG.
“Other clubs still have time to enter the race and try to lead the race in the next few weeks but these three clubs are already exploring contacts and situation for Manu Kone.
“So, keep an eye on him because the expectation is for a summer move. It’s my understanding that a summer move will be worth at least, at least €50m with add-ons. So it’s going to be an expensive deal for Manu Kone.”
Kone’s Impressive Season In German Football
Kone is having a solid campaign at Monchengladbach after putting in a handful of dominant displays at the heart of their midfield. The Frenchman has scored one goal and secured one assist in 25 matches for the German club this season in various competitions.
The 21-year-old has been a consistent performer in the middle of the park based on his average of 2.6 tackles, 1.0 interceptions, 0.6 clearances, 0.9 shots, 0.7 key passes and 1.9 dribbles per 90 minutes in Bundesliga. He has even been accurate when distributing the ball from midfield, as evidenced by his pass success rate of 86.9% in the German first division (stats via whoscored).
What Will Kone Add To Chelsea Head Coach Graham Potter’s Side?
Kone is a good tackler of the ball and can time his challenges well to earn possession back for his team at the centre of the park. He usually clears the danger when needed and can complete some dangerous dribbles with the ball in the opponent’s half.
At 21, the French talent has got a very promising future ahead of him and would be a great acquisition for the Blues this summer.
We can expect Kone to add some much-needed bite and steel to Graham Potter’s midfield and help Chelsea compete for some major silverware over the next decade. With all things considered, the West London club would be wise to try everything they can to bring Kone to Stamford Bridge in the off-season.
