Xabi Alonso has revealed that he has had conversations with Enzo Fernandez following Real Madrid’s rejection of links to the Chelsea midfielder, who has previously shown interest in leaving his current club.
While Fernandez has been participating in the World Cup with Argentina and has yet to meet the new Chelsea manager in person, Madrid’s striking statement aimed at dismissing speculation about the 25-year-old moving to the Santiago Bernabeu has made headlines.
In April, Fernandez hinted at a desire to join Madrid during a phase of uncertainty about his future, leading to Chelsea suspending him internally for two matches while under the management of Liam Rosenior.
Alonso, now at the helm of Chelsea, has confirmed that he has reached out to Fernandez regarding his situation.
Enzo Fernandez has spoken to new Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso (PA Wire)
“Yes, we have talked, but as you can imagine, our conversation will remain private,” Alonso mentioned during his introductory press conference at Stamford Bridge, the first since Mauricio Pochettino’s tenure. “But yes, we have conversed.”
When asked if he wishes to keep Fernandez in the squad for the coming season, Alonso affirmed, “Yes.”
Xabi Alonso wants to keep Fernandez (PA Wire)
In transfer news, Chelsea has confirmed the transfer of Marc Cucurella to Real Madrid for an initial fee of £47.4 million. Additionally, they have announced the £48 million transfer of midfielder Andrey Santos to Manchester United.
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Moreover, speculation surrounds another potential departure, as Fernandez’s fellow Argentine Alejandro Garnacho was absent from Alonso’s inaugural training session.
Alonso confirmed that Garnacho is attracting interest from other clubs, saying, “We have discussed it with the sports directors, and there is interest from other teams.”
Alonso confirmed there is interest from Alejandro Garnacho in other clubs (Getty)
“Let’s see how this develops, but I hope it concludes positively for all involved,” he added.
Elsewhere, Nicolas Jackson has returned from his loan at Bayern Munich and will be given an opportunity to showcase his abilities as Alonso evaluates his roster.
“He’s joining us for the tour in Asia, and we look forward to starting with Nico at that point,” Alonso noted.