Softfootball Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso reportedly contacted Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe during the summer transfer window as the Blues explored a potential move for Roma midfielder Manu Kone.
Chelsea had an extremely busy transfer window, bringing in 13 new players as Alonso began his first season in charge at Stamford Bridge. However, despite the club’s extensive recruitment activity, the Blues remained determined to strengthen their midfield before the window closed.
The need for another central midfielder became even more pressing following Enzo Fernandez’s departure to Premier League rivals Manchester City in a deal worth €145 million.
Chelsea identified Kone as one of their preferred options, with the France international facing an uncertain future at Roma and attracting interest from several major European clubs.
Manchester United and Liverpool were also linked with the midfielder, but Chelsea emerged as one of the strongest potential destinations should Kone leave Roma.
According to Foot Mercato, Alonso personally attempted to convince Kone to join Chelsea, with the Spanish coach reportedly speaking to the midfielder over the phone to discuss a move to Stamford Bridge.
Alonso is also said to have turned to someone he knows particularly well for additional information on the player.
The Chelsea boss reportedly contacted Mbappe, his former player at Real Madrid, to ask about Kone and his qualities as a footballer.
Mbappe is understood to have spoken extremely highly of his France international teammate, reportedly praising Kone in the “highest terms” during the conversation.
The exchange highlights the lengths Chelsea were prepared to go to in their attempt to strengthen the centre of midfield before the transfer deadline.
Kone’s situation at Roma had made him one of the more attractive options available. The 25-year-old had established himself as an important midfielder in Serie A and had also become a regular presence around the France national team setup.
For Alonso, bringing in another midfielder was considered an important part of balancing his new Chelsea squad, particularly after losing Fernandez.
Despite the reported efforts from the Chelsea manager, including his direct conversation with Kone and consultation with Mbappe, the proposed move did not materialise before the transfer window closed.
Chelsea therefore ended the summer without completing the deal for Kone, despite making him one of their key midfield targets.
The pursuit also provides an insight into Alonso’s approach at Stamford Bridge. Rather than relying solely on the club’s recruitment department, the former Real Madrid coach was reportedly personally involved in convincing targets and gathering information from players he knows and trusts.
Mbappe’s involvement is particularly notable given his relationship with Alonso from their time together at Real Madrid. His positive assessment of Kone could have strengthened Chelsea’s belief that the Roma midfielder would be capable of making the step to the Premier League.
For now, Kone remains at Roma, while Chelsea will have to assess whether to return for the France international in a future transfer window.
