Xabi Alonso has confirmed that Enzo Fernandez will be involved in Chelsea’s Carabao Cup tie against Luton Town tomorrow evening.
In doing so, the manager has made his stance on the Argentine clear. Alonso wants Fernandez to remain at Stamford Bridge for the long term, recognising the quality, versatility and influence he can bring to Chelsea’s midfield.
With speculation surrounding the midfielder’s future continuing, his inclusion could be a significant indication that Alonso sees Fernandez as an important part of his plans.
"Yes, so we expect that he's involved, he's trained, he's training really well, he's a good professional and he will be involved."
When pressed on whether Alonso wants his No. 8 to continue his career in London, the Chelsea boss made it clear that Fernandez’s qualities can play an important role in the club’s ambitions and his own plans for the future.
"We want to have the best team possible. We know his qualities, he has shown it and we have to wait, but we will think about tomorrow and let's see how things develop."
If Fernandez does stay, he could also be joined by his Argentine compatriot Emiliano Martínez, who has reportedly been offered to Chelsea by his representatives. The experienced goalkeeper could provide an immediate injection of quality and competition between the posts.
The possible move
As predicted early, the rumours just don't go away.
A move to Manchester City has been heavily speculated throughout the transfer window, with Fernandez’s representatives reportedly in daily contact with Enzo Maresca and the club as they explore the possibility of a reunion.
It is widely expected that Manchester City will make a fresh bid for Fernandez before the transfer window closes on September 1, despite already missing Chelsea’s self-imposed deadline last week. A £120 million offer has been touted as the figure that could finally tempt the Blues into doing business.
City have already spent heavily this summer, splashing £116 million on Elliot Anderson and £86 million on Ayyoub Bouaddi. However, they have also recouped significant funds through player sales, including the departures of Savinho and Omar Marmoush, giving Pep Guardiola’s side plenty of financial flexibility to make another major move for Fernandez.
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