Xabi Alonso Comments on Potential Transfers as Enzo Fernandez Nears Record Move to Man City

Xabi Alonso, Chelsea's manager, has admitted that both Enzo Fernandez and Pedro Neto might leave Stamford Bridge before the transfer deadline on Tuesday. Fernandez was notably missing from the squad during Chelsea’s recent 4-3 win over Brighton, while Manchester City prepare a British record-breaking offer for the Argentine midfielder.

Fernandez Left Out Again for Chelsea’s Win Against Brighton

Chelsea continued their perfect start in the Premier League with an exciting victory over Brighton, yet the club’s transfer dealings remain under intense scrutiny. Alonso chose to omit Fernandez from the matchday squad for the second time in a row, following a similar absence during the midweek Carabao Cup tie against Luton.

The Argentine midfielder is reportedly close to agreeing terms with Manchester City. Chelsea are asking for a staggering £130 million, which would set a new British transfer record if accepted.

Any sale of Fernandez depends heavily on Chelsea securing a proper replacement first. The club is actively pursuing new players and has reportedly agreed terms with Monaco’s midfielder Lamine Camara as they prepare for Fernandez’s possible exit.

Alonso Explains Squad Decisions Amid Transfer Uncertainty

When questioned about leaving Fernandez out of the team, Alonso said the choice was made purely for the good of the squad. He acknowledged the uncertainty ahead but remains confident his side will cope with any last-minute developments.

“We’ll see. We want the best for the team and that’s why we made the decision [to leave Fernandez out] against Luton and today,” Alonso told reporters. “Anything that happens before Tuesday evening, we need to be aware of what is going to develop. We are not sure, we are preparing for all the scenarios.”

Despite the transfer window deadline looming, Alonso believes Chelsea’s squad will be strong enough to compete throughout the demanding season.

“I am sure that whatever happens from Wednesday we will have a good enough squad to compete in all the Premier League games,” he added.

Pedro Neto’s Situation Remains Unclear

While Fernandez’s departure seems more likely, the future of Portuguese winger Pedro Neto is also uncertain. Several major Premier League clubs are reportedly interested in the versatile forward, who played in an unfamiliar wing-back position during the Brighton match.

Neto impressed by scoring a goal and continuously troubling Brighton’s defense. When asked if Neto would definitely stay at Chelsea, Alonso declined to guarantee anything.

“No, in football I don’t guarantee anything, not anyone,” Alonso said. “But I was very happy with Pedro. He did really well, he played with a lot of energy. He is going to be very important for the team for the whole season because he has different special qualities.”

“He is a threat in one-v-one, he attacks very well in the space, he is strong, he is competitive. I am happy that he scored, he was really close to scoring another one. I am very happy with Pedro.”

Transfer Deadline Approaches for Chelsea

Chelsea face a hectic final stretch before the transfer window closes as they juggle the possibility of high-profile departures and potential new signings. Securing the deal for Lamine Camara may speed up Fernandez’s move to Manchester City.

Once the deadline passes, Alonso will turn his focus entirely to domestic competitions, aiming to keep Chelsea’s unbeaten run intact in the Premier League.