Five Midfielders Chelsea Could Target to Replace Enzo Fernández in January
The Blues failed to secure a replacement for Enzo Fernández before the summer transfer window closed, leaving a clear gap in their midfield. Fernández's move to Manchester City on Deadline Day was a significant part of Chelsea's record $700 million (£519 million) outgoing transfers spree, but it left them short-handed in central areas.
With limited time after the transfer saga ended late on Deadline Day, Chelsea couldn't bring in another midfielder. Their thin midfield was exposed in the 2–1 loss to Arsenal, highlighting the need for reinforcements. Manager Xabi Alonso has had to work with what remains, but adding quality in January seems likely.
Winter signings often come with a high price tag, but Chelsea have shown willingness to invest heavily mid-season, having signed Fernández for a record fee in January 2023. Below are five midfielders who could be on Chelsea’s radar as potential replacements.
Frenkie De Jong
Frenkie de Jong is one of the world’s top central midfielders when fully fit. His situation at Barcelona could make him available despite Chelsea's ambitions appearing bold. He has not played since the 2026 World Cup due to a partially torn MCL and has opted against surgery so far, aiming for an October comeback through conservative treatment.
Barcelona's midfield is crowded with talents like Rodri, Gavi, and Marc Bernal, pushing De Jong down the pecking order even when healthy. Their frustration with his injury history and the depth of options could open the door for a transfer. Chelsea showed interest in 2022, and if De Jong returns to form soon, a winter move might be feasible.
Manu Koné
Chelsea showed interest in Manu Koné during the summer window. The French midfielder impressed with his ability to win duels, regain possession, and carry the ball forward under pressure. Reports suggested an offer around $70.2 million (£52 million) plus winger Jamie Gittens on loan was made, but Roma manager Gian Piero Gasperini blocked the move.
Koné fits well alongside Moisés Caicedo in a double-pivot midfield, potentially giving Chelsea's attack more freedom. Though unavailable in summer, Chelsea might revisit his situation in January if Roma’s stance softens or if their season progresses differently.
Adam Wharton
Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace has attracted attention from multiple Premier League giants and even Real Madrid. At 22, he is a technically skilled midfielder known for progressive passing and breaking lines rather than opting for simple outlets.
Wharton complements a player like Caicedo and shares traits with Fernández. Given his rising profile, Palace might struggle to keep him past this season. Chelsea faces stiff competition but pursuing him in January could be worthwhile regardless of cost.
Lamine Camara
Lamine Camara nearly joined Chelsea on Deadline Day for about $63.7 million (£47.1 million) before AS Monaco withdrew amid complications involving their striker Folarin Balogun’s potential sale. Camara is a versatile, athletic midfielder able to disrupt opponents and contribute reliably on the ball.
He impressed immediately after the failed transfer, playing a key role in Monaco’s win over Paris Saint-Germain by winning 12 duels and making eight defensive interventions. Though relations between clubs may be tense, Chelsea agreed personal terms with Camara, who would have signed a six-year contract. A renewed January pursuit could happen.
Alex Scott
Alex Scott is a Bournemouth talent Chelsea pursued before Fernández’s exit. An $86 million (£64 million) bid was reportedly rejected, but Chelsea could return with a bigger offer in January. Scott is considered a modern midfielder who contributes defensively, distributes the ball effectively, and poses a threat offensively.
Bournemouth only parted ways with Antoine Semenyo last January after initially resisting offers, suggesting Scott could be next to command a substantial winter transfer. Multiple English clubs covet him, and the fee might approach $100 million, but Chelsea could find value investing in a player with such potential.
