Enzo Fernandez expected to stay at Chelsea after dramatic U-turn
Enzo Fernandez is now expected to stay at Chelsea in a dramatic change to his transfer situation.
The Argentina international has attracted significant interest this summer, but Chelsea increasingly believe he will remain at Stamford Bridge and continue under Xabi Alonso.
Fernandez had been linked with several major clubs during the window, with Manchester City among those considering the midfielder.
Chelsea have consistently insisted they would not allow one of their most important players to leave cheaply.
The Athletic reports that there is now a belief at Stamford Bridge that Fernandez is more likely to stay than leave.
Chelsea continue to regard the 25-year-old as part of Alonso’s plans despite interest from elsewhere.
The Blues placed a valuation of at least £120million on Fernandez earlier in the summer. However, the rapidly approaching Premier League season is now another major consideration.
Chelsea do not want to lose such an important player once competitive football has begun and potentially disrupt Alonso’s squad at a time when the new manager is attempting to settle his strongest side.
There has already been another encouraging indication that Fernandez is preparing for the season at Stamford Bridge.
ReadChelsea reported on Monday that Fernandez was among the senior players returning following an extended break after the World Cup.
The Athletic adds that Fernandez actually visited Chelsea’s training ground on Monday despite his first scheduled training session not being until Wednesday.
It is a significant development after months of uncertainty.
Real Madrid and Manchester City have both been linked with the World Cup winner during the summer, while Chelsea’s willingness to listen to an enormous offer left the possibility of an exit open.
That door now appears to be closing.
Alonso has previously made clear that he wants Fernandez at Chelsea, and the midfielder’s expected stay would allow him to build around an established partnership with Moises Caicedo as the new season approaches.
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