Xabi Alonso Confirms Enzo Fernandez Set to Play as Manchester City Prepares Big Bid

Enzo Fernandez Expected to Play Despite Transfer Talk

Xabi Alonso, manager of Chelsea, expects Enzo Fernandez to take part in the upcoming Carabao Cup match against Luton Town this Thursday. This comes amid reports that Manchester City are ready to make a huge £120 million offer for Fernandez before the transfer window closes.

Carabao Cup Plans for Fernandez

Manchester City have been linked with a move for Fernandez throughout the summer, despite missing Chelsea's informal deadline earlier in the window. Valued at £120 million, Fernandez remains a key player for Chelsea. He recently came off the bench in their Premier League opener against Fulham.

Alonso confirmed Fernandez’s availability, saying: Yes, so we expect that he’s involved. He has trained, he’s training really well, he’s a good professional and he will be involved.

Keeping Key Players at Chelsea

Fernandez was warmly welcomed by Chelsea fans when he appeared at Craven Cottage, despite facing boos during a pre-season friendly due to his controversial role in Argentina’s World Cup semi-final against England.

When asked about retaining Fernandez, Alonso was cautious: We want to have the best team possible. We know his qualities. He has shown it and we have to wait, but we will think about tomorrow and let’s see how things develop. Manchester City are expected to put forward another offer before the September 1 deadline.

Potential Midfield Replacements

If Fernandez leaves, Chelsea are reportedly interested in Bournemouth's Alex Scott. Bournemouth have resisted offers so far, but it’s believed that a bid over £80 million, possibly close to £90 million, could change their mind.

Alonso avoided committing to any conditions for selling Fernandez: It is always about understanding the context, the situation, timings, circumstances, so there is not a defined rule for everything. You need to know how things have worked, what you want, what you want for the future, so I don’t have the rules in stone. We need to assess each situation.

What’s Next for Fernandez and Chelsea?

Chelsea's immediate focus is on the Carabao Cup game against Luton Town, where Fernandez is expected to feature. After that, the team will prepare for important Premier League matches. Meanwhile, Manchester City must act quickly to finalize an acceptable offer before the transfer window closes next week.

• Upcoming Fixtures:
• Carabao Cup: Chelsea vs Luton Town - 27 Aug 2026, 20:30
• Premier League: Crystal Palace vs Manchester City - 28 Aug 2026, 21:00