Journalist ‘surprised’ midfielder picked Roma over Milan: “A more famous team”

Journalist Monica Colombo has revealed her surprise that Manu Kone chose to join AS Roma over AC Milan, but also gave some of the back story on why the move never materialised.

During the closing stages of the 2024 summer transfer window the possibility emerged of selling Ismael Bennacer to a club abroad and using the proceeds to go and get Kone from Borussia Monchengladbach.

The French midfielder – who had just been part of a run to the final of the Olympic Games with his country – has long been a target for Milan. The Rossoneri tried to get him during his time at Toulouse three years ago, but Bennacer remains and Kone ended up at Roma.

Colombo is the director at Corriere della Sera and she spoke during an interview with Calciomercato.com about Kone’s late move to the Giallorossi, with her comments relayed by PianetaMilan.

“Milan have now closed their squad lists, with Bennacer staying. There is always the possibility of changing two before January, but I think that the real target in midfield was Manu Kone and that Rabiot was being used a bit to hide the other negotiation,” she said.

“I hope Roma, the Roman fans and their supporters don’t mind, but I’m surprised that between Milan and Roma he chose the Giallorossi instead of a more famous team, then obviously Bennacer did his part by not leaving and consequently it wasn’t possible to sink for Kone.”