Inter's Midfield Shake-Up: Koné and Jones Targeted by Chivu
Cristian Chivu has not waited for Davide Frattesi to walk out the door before drawing up his blueprint for Inter’s next midfield. The club are already working on an ambitious double move: Manu Koné from Roma and Curtis Jones from Liverpool.
According to Tuttosport, via CalcioMercato, Koné sits at the top of Inter’s domestic shortlist. The Frenchman only arrived at Roma from Borussia Mönchengladbach in the summer of 2024 for €18 million plus €2 million in bonuses, yet he has quickly become a central figure in the Giallorossi’s plans, racking up 81 appearances with four goals and six assists.
He is tied to Roma until June 2029 on a contract worth €2.8 million net per season. That long deal gives Roma leverage, but also a dilemma. With financial fair play tightening the screws, the capital club may be open to a sale if the offer fits both the balance sheet and the squad.
Inter already tested the water last August and came away empty-handed. This time, they are ready to return with a different angle, encouraged by Chivu’s strong endorsement of the player. The idea on the table is a swap-based operation: Roma could receive Carlos Augusto and/or Frattesi as part of the package, a structure that would address needs on both sides ahead of a crucial summer.
Koné is the priority. But he is not the only name on the list.
Jones lined up as complementary signing
The pressure to reshape the midfield will not stop with one signing. Even if Koné arrives, Tuttosport reports that Inter are considering a second addition in the same area of the pitch, with Curtis Jones emerging as a live option.
Jones, under contract at Liverpool until June 2027, earns a relatively modest €500,000 net per season. That wage level makes any potential deal easier to digest for Inter’s payroll, a rare chance to add a Premier League‑hardened midfielder without blowing up the salary structure.
At Appiano Gentile, the England international is viewed as a complement to Koné, not an alternative. The plan is not either/or. It is both, if the market allows it.
Inter tried once for Koné and were rebuffed. Now, with Frattesi expected to move on and Chivu intent on putting his stamp on the side, the Nerazzurri are pushing again. The question is simple: will Roma and Liverpool open the door to a midfield rebuilt in one bold summer?
