Photo by Catherine Ivill - AMA/Getty Images
Photo by Catherine Ivill - AMA/Getty Images
Chelsea are busy finding themselves a replacement for Enzo Fernandez as the Argentine’s move to Man City edges closer – but the Blues are set to be frustrated by Arsenal.
According to reports in Argentina, Fernandez’s move to Man City is a done deal. Chelsea sources have indicated that a deal is yet to be completed, and actually, talks between the two sides are not active.
Chelsea v Luton Town - Carabao Cup Second Round
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However, Fernandez’s omission on Thursday night – which Argentine media claim was requested by Fernandez himself – suggests something is bubbling under the surface. As did his actions on Monday.
Chelsea have been strongly linked with Monaco’s Lamine Camara on Thursday, while the Blues continue to be linked with Adam Wharton and Alex Scott. Now, Arsenal are set to frustrate Alonso’s pursuit.
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Xabi Alonso has already asked Chelsea to sign Martin Zubimendi
A fellow Real Sociedad icon, Martin Zubimendi has fallen down the pecking order at Arsenal following the addition of Bruno Guimaraes. Alonso is already said to have asked Chelsea to sign the Arsenal midfielder.
But with Guimaraes said to be out injured, the chances of Arsenal selling Zubimendi were always going to be unlikely. Especially as he only joined the Gunners last season, and Arsenal are a direct rival for Chelsea.
Spain v Argentina: Final - FIFA World Cup 2026
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Now, Arsenal’s stance on Zubimendi will frustrate Chelsea
With Fernandez possibly departing the club and Alonso needing a more defensive-minded replacement given the 3-4-2-1 formation, Zubimendi would have been perfect. Chelsea can afford his £68m price tag.
But with less than five days remaining in the transfer window, Daily Telegraph reporter Matt Law claims any chance of a deal for Zubimendi is “very, very difficult”. He even suggests a deal is “impossible”.
“Chelsea are interested in Lamine Camara. But, currently, there has been no bid for Enzo Fernandez or club-to-club contact from Manchester City. Chelsea’s previous £120m asking price no longer applies
“The expectation is it’s now higher, and Chelsea will only consider a sale if they feel they can strengthen. Alex Scott and Zubimendi seen as very, very difficult (if not impossible) to do at this stage,” Law said.
Enzo Fernandez and Enzo Maresca hugging graphic
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Who else are Chelsea targeting at this late stage?
There is plenty going on at Chelsea. Mamadou Sarr has joined Sociedad on loan, while Emi Martinez and Honest Ahanor are expected to be announced by Chelsea in the next 24 hours. There are more exits, too.
Caleb Wiley has completed a loan move to Preston, Marc Guiu remains of interest to Napoli and David Fofana is about to complete a £3m move to Swiss side Servette. Nicolas Jackson is joining Aston Villa.
More is expected, with sales likely to outweigh additions. Tosin Adarabioyo, Gaga Slonina, Malo Gusto, Pedro Neto and others could still depart. Camara looks the likeliest replacement for Fernandez right now.