Xabi Alonso has declined to confirm whether Chelsea would reject an attempt from Manchester City to buy Enzo Fernández.
Uncertainty continues to surround Fernández’s future, and a departure from Stamford Bridge remains possible despite Chelsea’s informal deadline for written offers of £120m for the 25-year-old Argentina midfielder having passed. City are considering a late approach as they reshape their midfield following Rodri’s transfer to Barcelona, with Roma’s Manu Koné also among their targets.
Chelsea are aware that circumstances could change and have shortlisted Bournemouth’s Alex Scott and Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton as potential successors. Fernández has openly indicated that he wants to move on, while Alonso avoided committing himself when questioned about whether the player would remain after the transfer window closes.
“Enzo remains a Chelsea player and his quality is clear,” the former Real Madrid coach said. “He has trained extremely well since joining the squad 10 days ago, settled in quickly and shown strong involvement. We are pleased with him, and he is preparing for Monday.”
Chelsea begin their Premier League season away to Fulham on Monday evening, with Fernández likely to be included in the matchday squad. However, Alonso again sidestepped a question about whether the £106.7m signing had expressed a wish to stay. “His work in training has been very good, and his attitude is positive. That is what we expect as every player works hard to be ready for the Premier League opener.”
A replacement midfielder would be required if Fernández departs. Chelsea have a strong interest in Scott, but an initial proposal for the 22-year-old was unsuccessful and Bournemouth are determined not to sell him this summer. Wharton is another option, although Palace have already turned down a City bid for the England international.
Alonso also intends to reduce the size of his squad before the market closes. Nicolas Jackson, Liam Delap and Marc Guiu have slipped down the attacking hierarchy and could depart. Everton, Leeds, Ipswich and Nottingham Forest are monitoring Delap, while Chelsea have received interest in Pedro Neto and Malo Gusto. Palace, meanwhile, hope to strengthen their back line by taking Axel Disasi on loan.
Following another eventful summer at Chelsea, Alonso must also assess how supporters would respond if Fernández stayed. A section of the crowd jeered him during last week’s friendly victory against Real Sociedad at Stamford Bridge. “There were some negative reactions, but fans also sang his name,” Alonso said. “These things can happen. He has our backing because Enzo is an outstanding player who has made an important contribution.”
Fernández’s status within the squad was underlined when he took the captain’s armband after entering the match against Sociedad. Alonso may continue to appoint him as Reece James’s understudy. “Reece is our main captain, although several other influential figures in the group are capable of sharing those leadership duties,” the Spanish coach added.
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