AS Roma face significant financial pressure this summer. The club must generate capital gains of up to €80million by June 30 under their UEFA settlement agreement signed in 2022, and Koné — valued at around €40-45million — is one of the players whose sale would make the largest contribution to that figure.
Inter Milan, managed by head coach Cristian Chivu, are the most persistent suitor. They attempted to sign Koné last summer but Roma refused to negotiate. Inter subsequently signed Andy Diouf from Lens as an alternative but the French midfielder has failed to establish himself at San Siro, increasing the urgency of another approach this summer. A deal could potentially include midfielder Davide Frattesi moving in the opposite direction.
Gasperini was asked directly about Koné's future ahead of Sunday's match and left the door open while making clear his preference.
"There are many clear opportunities. But as for him, he is a strong player and I would like him to continue playing for Roma. Why would I say I want him to leave? No, I hope he continues. Then, if an unmissable offer were to come along — one that would allow him to do other things — we shall see."
He also placed the question in the context of Roma's broader financial reality.
"Nobody is unsellable in modern football, except perhaps at the very top clubs. A lot depends on what the club wants to do — we need to look to them. The Champions League always makes a significant financial difference, and everyone wants to qualify for that reason."
Roma sit fifth in Serie A with three matches remaining, one point behind fourth-placed Juventus. Champions League qualification would not eliminate the need to sell but would significantly reduce the pressure to do so at any price.
Newcastle United have also been linked with Koné, though Inter are considered heavy favourites given their financial capacity and the groundwork already laid in previous negotiations.