Xabi Alonso has spoken to the media ahead of Chelsea's opening clash of the new Premier League season.
Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso during a press conference
Xabi Alonso during a press conference(Image: Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC)
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Xabi Alonso has provided an update on Enzo Fernandez ahead of Chelsea's clash against Fulham. The 25-year-old midfielder looks set to be available for selection when the Blues face Alvaro Arbeloa's side at Craven Cottage on Monday night, despite still facing an uncertain future.
Speaking to reporters at Cobham training ground on Thursday afternoon, Alonso confirmed that Fernandez will prepare for the opening game of the new Premier League season with the rest of the squad as normal.
The Spaniard said: "Enzo is a Chelsea player. He's a top, top player. He's training really well. We are happy with him, and he's getting ready for Monday."
football.london understands that, at the end of May, Fernandez informed higher-ups at Stamford Bridge of his desire to leave. The Argentina international had previously left the door open to Real Madrid, refusing to rule out a departure from Chelsea, before claiming he would love to one day live in the Spanish capital.
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In July, Los Blancos withdrew from the race to sign Fernandez, announcing in an official statement that they had not, and did not plan to, make any effort to finalise a deal. Eager to wrap up the bulk of business before the start of the campaign, it's understood that Chelsea then set a deadline for potential suitors to pay the £120m asking price.
The Blues didn't receive a single offer for the Argentine prior to 5pm last Friday, despite Enzo Maresca being keen to reunite with him at the Etihad Stadium. Although Manchester City are said to remain interested in Fernandez, he's trained with the first team at Cobham as usual and is available for selection on Monday night.
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