Ismael Kone exit claim made as Roma eye Watford ace

The 21-year-old joined the club in the January window in 2023, so the previous season was his first full one for the Hornets, and whilst it was a disappointing campaign for the team on the whole, as they languished in mid-table, it was an impressive one for Kone.

The Canadian international was a standout figure due to his energy and intensity in the middle of the park, and he also boasts real technical ability, and he travels well with the ball.

It should come as no surprise, then, that a few larger clubs are keeping an eye on the young player. It’s believed that Italian powerhouse Roma views him as a potential midfield addition.

Naturally, Kone is excited about the possibility of relocating to the Italian capital, and Daniele De Rossi’s team will be able to provide him with European football in addition to the opportunity to play against some of the best teams in Serie A.

Kone has a contract at Vicarage Road that runs until the summer of 2027, so they won’t be under pressure to cash in if an offer does come their way in the window, but it will be hard to stand in the way of the player if their interest does firm up.

Watford told to consider big Ismael Kone sale

Tom Cleverley will want to build a team that is capable of pushing for the play-offs next season, so selling a key figure will not be part of his plans.

However, fan pundit Justin explained to FLW that a substantial offer for Kone could actually benefit Watford as it would allow them to strengthen other areas of the squad which need addressing.

“Kone was one of our better players last season, and he now looks quite comfortable in his midfield role, and he is still quite young.

“I think Roma would be tempted to accept such offer, but it’s more probable that the owners will try to negotiate a higher price for Kone. At Vicarage Road, we definitely must start making investments in the recruitment department.

“I can understand the reasoning behind maybe getting a high fee for him and investing that across the squad, as sad as it would be to see Kone go, as I genuinely think he was one of the better players last season.”