Chelsea legend Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink believes Enzo Fernández could be replaced from within the current squad, meaning Chelsea would have no need to spend big on a direct replacement.
The Argentine international has been heavily linked with a reunion with former Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca at Manchester City, with the Blues reportedly setting a deadline for their Premier League rivals to make a bid before the season began.
That offer never materialised, and Fernández featured in Chelsea’s final pre-season game against Real Sociedad. Xabi Alonso now appears to be counting on the midfielder as an important part of his new Chelsea project.
Speaking on Sky Sports’ Premier League Weekend, the former Chelsea striker named the main option but warned a replacement is needed as it will leave the midfield depth light.
"You will have Caicedo with Reece James and someone else as a right-wing back but they do need a replacement. Lavia comes with injuries."
The Premier League 100-goal club member spoke to Football London ahead of his TV appearance, naming the players he would like to see replace Fernández. However, his preferred options from La Liga would come at a significant cost, making an internal solution a far more appealing prospect for Chelsea.
"I would love to see Gavi or Aurelien Tchouameni. Obviously, it's gonna cost serious money. I don't know if Chelsea wants to do that, but I would love one of those two players to come in and bolster, because when they come into the dressing room, straight away, it's a big player that comes in. It gives a message to the other players."
The former Chelsea striker was full of praise for the Argentine international, describing him as a big-game player who has fought for the badge he is wearing and one whose sh*thousery Chelsea fans would certainly miss.
"“Enzo turns up at big games, important moments he’s there, you have to fight, you’re under pressure he’s there” "
Jimmy Floyd-Hasselbaink scored 69 goals across four seasons after joining from Leeds United becoming the focal point in the era before Roman Abramovich and signed the centre-forward superstars.
He became a legend at Stamford Bridge and his voice comes with added weight.
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