Chelsea Boss Alonso Leaves Door Open for Fernandez, Neto Exits
SingTao · 1 SOURCESabout 2 hours ago1 MIN
Summary
Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has acknowledged that midfielders Enzo Fernandez and Pedro Neto could both leave before Tuesday's Premier League summer transfer deadline, potentially triggering a major squad overhaul for the Blues.
Key Points
- Argentine midfielder Enzo Fernandez is desperate to join Manchester City, who are preparing a British-record £130 million bid (approximately HK$1.3 billion)
- Alonso has consecutively excluded Fernandez from matchday squads, explaining this was done for the team's best interests amid ongoing transfer uncertainty
- Portuguese international Pedro Neto, recently deployed as a wing-back, has attracted interest from Liverpool, though Alonso stopped short of guaranteeing his stay
- When pressed on whether he could assure Neto's retention, Alonso stated he cannot make promises to anyone in football
- Chelsea are willing to sanction sales for both players if suitable transfer fees are received and replacement targets can be secured
Why It Matters
This development signals Chelsea's willingness to execute significant squad changes even at the eleventh hour, potentially setting a new British transfer record in the process. For Premier League title contenders like Manchester City, landing Fernandez would represent a major statement of intent ahead of the new season.
This development signals Chelsea's willingness to execute significant squad changes even at the eleventh hour, potentially setting a new British transfer record in the process. For Premier League title contenders like Manchester City, landing Fernandez would represent a major statement of intent ahead of the new season.