Xabi Alonso is keen to build his Chelsea side around Enzo Fernandez, however there are still no assurances that he will remain at the club for next season.
Despite not taking over until the 2026/27 campaign, Alonso has already been assessing the players he is going to have available to him for his time in charge.
Joao Pedro and Cole Palmer have been named as untouchable to the new manager, who is also keen to keep hold of Marc Cucurella despite reports linking him to Spain.
Has Xabi Alonso chosen the right TWO players to build his Chelsea team around?🤔
Xabi Alonso wants to keep Enzo Fernandez and Marc Cucurella
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Enzo Fernandez still not committing to Chelsea despite Xabi Alonso hiring
Enzo Fernandez is another player Alonso would like to be at Stamford Bridge, however he has been strongly linked with the exit door this summer.
Simon Phillips has stated that Alonso is set to talk to the midfielder soon to try and convince him to stay, however the chances of him moving to Manchester City are now high due to the hiring of Enzo Maresca.
He said on his Substack: “Fernandez has been unhappy at Chelsea this season and is worried about the future at Stamford Bridge. The midfielder wants to challenge for the top trophies and wants Chelsea to match his ambitions.
Chelsea v Manchester City - Emirates FA Cup Final
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“As we reported over the weekend, SPTC Sources have confirmed that Alonso wants to KEEP Fernandez and will be having a meeting with him very soon to convince him to stay on. This does not mean that Fernandez will now definitely be staying at the club, but he will of course be willing to listen to what Alonso says and keep things open for now.
“Fernandez still has both Manchester City and Real Madrid knocking on the door for him. With Enzo Maresca now going to be taking charge at Manchester City in the summer, the chances of Fernandez joining him there is something quite possible.
“The club have always been open to selling him, but it would need to be for at least £100m. It’s unclear if any club will pay that, but offering players is something that could help if Real Madrid or City do make an offer. If a serious offer comes in from either club, we believe that Fernandez will want to go still.”
It’s going to be a big summer for Xabi Alonso and Chelsea!
Xabi Alonso graphic
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Real Madrid still in pole position to sign Fernandez
The World Cup winner made it clear in the last international break how much admiration he had for Real Madrid, and the prospect of living in the city.
Florentino Perez has promised to sign Fernandez if he is elected the Madrid president again after recently calling an election at the club.
A move there would see him linking up with Chelsea legend Jose Mourinho, who is set to take over at the Bernabeu.
Chelsea could make some serious money on Fernandez in the transfer window, however would face difficulties replacing his ability to find goals from midfield.
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