Tottenham Hotspur have been handed a major blow in their pursuit of a midfielder who has been impressing for France at the World Cup.
After strengthening between the sticks and their defence, the Lilywhites are now seemingly focused on adding more quality to their midfield.
Tottenham are pushing ahead with two big-money moves for Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes, and it will certainly be a huge statement of ambition from the club if they clinch those deals.
Additionally, the Lilywhites are also keeping close tabs on a Serie A star, but they have now received some bad news on that front.
Tottenham target Manu Kone wants to join Arsenal
Over the last few days, Tottenham have emerged as genuine contenders for AS Roma midfielder Manu Kone, who impressed for France in their 3-0 win over Iraq earlier this week.
A new report in Quotidiano Sportivo has now revealed that Kone is one of two big names who could leave the Stadio Olimpico this summer, but the bad news for the Lilywhites is that their North London rivals have also entered the race.
The report reveals that Arsenal have held a long-term interest in the midfielder and explored a move for him during the January window.
It is alleged that Kone would welcome the chance to move to the Emirates Stadium and test himself in the Premier League and the Champions League.
La Liga giants have submitted an offer for Kone
Quotidiano Sportivo explain that Kone’s showing at the World Cup has seen his value rise and the interest in his services intensify.
The latest club to enter the race for the Roma man is Atletico Madrid, who are keen to reinforce their midfield after a trophyless 2025-26 season.
The La Liga club have put €45m (£38.7m) on the table to tempt the Giallorossi. However, it is revealed that Kone is now waiting for Arsenal to match the offer, with the player not expected to decide on his future until the end of the World Cup.