Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe reportedly played a key role in Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso’s pursuit of Roma midfielder Manu Kone during the summer transfer window.

Reports indicate that Alonso sought Mbappe’s personal assessment of the French midfielder before giving the green light for Chelsea to intensify their efforts to sign him.

Chelsea had identified Kone as a priority target following Enzo Fernandez’s £125 million move to Manchester City, with Alonso keen to strengthen his midfield options ahead of the new season.

Kone had attracted growing interest from several English clubs after two impressive seasons with Roma and a series of strong performances for France at the World Cup.

Mbappe, who was consulted by his former Real Madrid teammate Alonso, reportedly gave a glowing recommendation of Kone, further encouraging Chelsea to pursue the midfielder.

The Blues subsequently reached an agreement with Roma for a fee of around €70 million (£60 million), higher than the initial valuation. Kone was also said to be eager to join Chelsea, with personal terms reportedly agreed.

However, the transfer collapsed at the final stage of the window after Roma failed to secure a suitable replacement.

The Serie A club had explored moves for AC Milan’s Youssouf Fofana and Marseille midfielder Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, but both attempts were unsuccessful, forcing Roma to block Kone’s departure.

Chelsea also failed in their pursuit of Monaco midfielder Lamine Camara, leaving the club potentially short of options in the middle of the park.

The situation could become more concerning for Alonso, with Romeo Lavia facing serious injury concerns and Moises Caicedo also dealing with recent fitness issues.

Chelsea will now be forced to navigate the season without their preferred midfield reinforcements after a frustrating end to the summer transfer window.