Enzo Fernandez: Chelsea boss Xabi Alonso happy with midfielder amid uncertainty

BBC Sport

Enzo Fernandez has shown a "really good attitude" since his return to Chelsea, says head coach Xabi Alonso, as speculation over the midfielder's future continues.

Chelsea agreed with Fernandez's agent Javier Pastore in late May that the Argentina midfielder could leave for £120m, but set a deadline of 14 August for any bids.

Manchester City, managed by Fernandez's former Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca, are keen to sign the 25-year-old and believe the London club still want to do a deal.

But Alonso has indicated that the midfielder is focused as Chelsea prepare for their Premier League opener at Fulham on Monday.

Asked during his news conference on Thursday if Fernandez would still be at Stamford Bridge when the transfer window closes on 1 September, Alonso said: "Enzo is a Chelsea player. We are happy with him and he's getting ready for Monday."

Alonso added that the 25‑year‑old has "integrated really well" since rejoining the group after the World Cup and is "training really well".

"I see him with a really good attitude and that's what we want," he said.

Why Fernandez uncertainty has echoes of Isak saga

Published6 days agoFernandez wants Chelsea exit but club would demand £120m

Published27 MayJoao Pedro set to extend Chelsea deal to 2034

Published2 days agoManchester City, who are also in advanced talks about a £85m deal for Morocco midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, have looked at Fernandez as they want to bolster their midfield after Rodri agreed a move to Barcelona and Bernardo Silva left when his contract expired.

Reports from Spain suggest Chelsea privately remain open to selling Fernandez and have appointed agent Jorge Mendes, who also represents winger Pedro Neto, to resolve the situation.

Fernandez tried and failed to secure a move to Real Madrid earlier in the summer - despite the club later denying any interest - and the situation is further complicated by his relationship with Chelsea's fans.

There were audible jeers when he came on during Saturday's 3-1 friendly win over Real Sociedad, although others responded with cheers. There was a similar mixed reaction every time he touched the ball.

Chelsea made a show of intent by giving him the captain's armband when he replaced Reece James last weekend.

Fernandez booed by Chelsea fans as Alonso offers glimpse of blueprint

Chelsea say no Fernandez move as deadline passes - but is it really over?

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