Chelsea did not make bid for Roma midfielder

Chelsea did not make a formal bid for Roma midfielder Manu Kone despite holding discussions with his representatives, according to journalist David Ornstein.

The Blues sanctioned the sale of Enzo Fernandez to Manchester City on transfer deadline day, and Kone was one of those linked to replace the Argentine.

However, a deal never materialised. Ornstein reveals that Chelsea were expected to make an approach for the Frenchman, but no offer was made in the end.

Roma were also happy to keep hold of Kone after their Champions League qualification after seven years. They are set for a huge financial boost this campaign.

Kone was also linked with possible moves to Arsenal and Manchester United earlier this summer, but neither club made an approach for his services too.

Chelsea tried to sign AS Monaco midfielder Lamine Camara instead on deadline day. A verbal agreement was reached for the 22-year-old, but Monaco pulled the plug on the deal at the final stages.