Enzo Fernández has been told by Chelsea’s new manager Xabi Alonso to stay at the club this summer after the Argentina midfielder was linked with a move away.
What happened at Chelsea this week?
Chelsea began pre-season under Alonso on Tuesday 14 July 2026, but two key players—Reece James and Enzo Fernández—were absent because they are facing each other in England’s World Cup semi-final on Wednesday. Alonso confirmed James will remain club captain for the new season, while he wants Fernández to remain at Chelsea despite reported transfer interest.
James, 26, was made captain in August 2023 and has battled injuries during his Chelsea career. He made 39 appearances across all competitions last season before joining England’s World Cup squad. Alonso praised James in an exclusive interview with *Sky Sports News*, saying: “He can do everything. He can attack from inside or outside. He can deliver, he’s good at set-pieces, he has blue DNA, which is very important.”
Why it matters for Enzo Fernández
Fernández joined Chelsea from Benfica in January 2023 for £106.8m, a British-record transfer at the time. Last season he scored 10 Premier League goals and provided four assists in 36 appearances, his best campaign in England so far. His future has been uncertain this summer, but Alonso moved quickly to quash Real Madrid’s reported interest, saying: “Enzo’s a great player and we are looking forward to having him and start working together.”
The 25-year-old midfielder has been a standout performer under previous managers and now faces a pivotal choice: stay at Chelsea under Alonso or pursue a move elsewhere. His decision could shape Chelsea’s midfield for the coming season.
What comes next for Chelsea’s squad?
Alonso also confirmed interest in winger Alejandro Garnacho, 22, who did not join the first training session this week. *Sky Sports News* reported Chelsea are prepared to sell him for £50m this summer. Garnacho is a target for Roma, according to *Sky in Italy*.
Striker Nicolas Jackson, who spent last season on loan at Bayern Munich, will join Chelsea’s pre-season tour of Asia. Alonso said: “I look forward to starting with Nico at that time.”
The new boss avoided predictions for the season ahead but insisted European qualification remains a target. With Fernández, James and Jackson central to his plans, Alonso’s first squad is taking shape—even if key players are missing early on.
Transfer watch: Who else is in or out?
Fernández is not the only Chelsea player facing transfer speculation. Garnacho’s future looks set to be decided in the coming weeks, with clubs circling. Alonso’s stance signals he wants to keep the spine of his team intact while managing exits where necessary.
The club’s pre-season tour starts soon, but the biggest talking point remains Fernández’s contract. His call will set the tone for Chelsea’s summer—and their push for a top-half finish in the Premier League.