Transfer: Chelsea approach Kone over possible Fernandez replacement

Chelsea have opened contact with the representatives of Roma midfielder Manu Kone as they prepare for the possibility of Enzo Fernandez leaving Stamford Bridge before the transfer deadline.

The France international has emerged as one of the options being considered by the Blues, although negotiations are still at an early stage.

Chelsea assess Kone as Fernandez future remains uncertain

According to Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea have spoken with Kone’s agents to establish the conditions of a potential move, but no advanced talks have taken place.

Roma are keen to retain the 25-year-old and have not received an official offer from Chelsea.

Kone has established himself as an important player in the Italian capital since joining Roma from Borussia Monchengladbach in 2024. He featured in 29 Serie A matches last season, starting 28, as Roma secured a third-place finish.

The midfielder recorded two goals and three assists across 2,456 league minutes.

His performances have also earned him a growing role with France. Kone made his international debut against Italy in September 2024 and has since collected 18 caps.

He was included in France’s squad for this summer’s World Cup and started four matches during their campaign.

Camara remains another midfield option

Chelsea’s interest in Kone comes with uncertainty surrounding Fernandez, who has attracted interest from Manchester City.

The Argentina international’s future at Stamford Bridge remains unresolved as City consider whether to make another attempt to sign him before the transfer window closes.

Chelsea are therefore assessing several midfield alternatives, with Monaco’s Lamine Camara also previously identified as a potential target.

However, interest in Camara has cooled following a lack of progress in discussions between the clubs.

According to reports from Onze Mondial and L’Equipe, Chelsea held talks with Monaco last week but have not advanced negotiations for the Senegal international.

Camara, 22, joined Monaco from Metz in 2024 and has made 75 appearances for the club, scoring six goals.

He has started all four of Monaco’s league matches this season and has already found the net once.