Posted by Chinenye on Fri 04th Sep, 2026 - tori.ng
Kylian Mbappe played a surprising role in Chelsea’s pursuit of a new midfield star this summer after Xabi Alonso turned to his fellow Frenchman for advice.
(Kylian Mbappe. Photo Credit: BBC News)
Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe played a crucial role in convincing Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso to pursue Roma midfielder Manu Kone this summer.
According to reports, Alonso sought Mbappe's personal recommendation before approving Chelsea's move for the French midfielder.
Chelsea had identified Kone as a priority midfield target after Enzo Fernandez chose to leave the club.
The midfielder had earned attention from English clubs following two strong seasons with Roma and impressed during the World Cup while representing France.
On the final day of the transfer window, it appeared Chelsea had pushed through a deal, but the move ultimately collapsed and Kone remained at Roma.
The Blues struggled on the transfer market this summer, also failing to secure Monaco's Lamine Camara.
Meanwhile, Fernandez departed for Manchester City in a £125 million deal.
Alonso, looking to strengthen his midfield without Fernandez, reached out to his former Real Madrid teammate Mbappe to get his thoughts on Kone.
Mbappe gave a glowing endorsement of his fellow Frenchman.
Shortly after, Chelsea and Roma agreed on a fee of around €70 million (£60 million), higher than initially expected.
Kone was keen on the move and personal terms were settled, but the deal fell apart at the final moment.
Roma ultimately blocked the transfer because they could not find a suitable replacement.
The Italian club had attempted to sign Youssouf Fofana from AC Milan and Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg from Marseille but both moves fell through.
The inability to land Kone and Camara leaves Chelsea potentially short in midfield this season, especially with Romeo Lavia dealing with serious injury concerns and Moises Caicedo facing recent issues.