Xabi Alonso Shares Key Updates on Enzo Fernandez and Pedro Neto Amid Transfer Deadline

Xabi Alonso Addresses Transfer Speculations Surrounding Chelsea Stars

Xabi Alonso, Chelsea's manager, has revealed that both Enzo Fernandez and Pedro Neto might leave Stamford Bridge before the transfer window closes on Tuesday. Fernandez was notably absent from the squad during Chelsea’s recent 4-3 win against Brighton, as Manchester City prepares to make a record-breaking British offer for the Argentine midfielder.

Fernandez Dropped for Brighton Victory

Chelsea secured a thrilling victory over Brighton but the focus remains on their transfer dealings. Alonso left Fernandez out of the matchday squad for the second game in a row after also omitting him during the Carabao Cup match against Luton earlier in the week. Reports indicate Fernandez has agreed personal terms with Manchester City, but Chelsea demands a staggering £130 million, which would set a British transfer record.

The potential move hinges on Chelsea signing a replacement, with talks reportedly underway to bring in Lamine Camara from Monaco.

Alonso Explains His Decisions on Transfers

"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 uncertainty, Alonso believes his squad will be strong enough to compete throughout the Premier League 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 Future Also Up in the Air

Fernandez’s departure seems more probable, but Neto’s situation remains unclear. The Portuguese winger, who played in an unfamiliar wing-back role against Brighton, attracted interest from several top Premier League clubs. Despite the rumors, Neto scored in the match and posed a consistent threat.

"No, in football I don’t guarantee anything, not anyone," Alonso said when asked about Neto’s future. "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 praised Neto’s attacking skills, strength, and competitiveness, adding that Neto nearly scored a second goal and showed great promise.

Transfer Deadline Day Approaches

Chelsea faces intense final hours of the transfer window as they balance potential departures and new signings. Completing the Camara deal could speed up Fernandez’s switch to Manchester City. After the deadline passes, Alonso will focus fully on maintaining Chelsea’s unbeaten record in the Premier League with his newly shaped squad.

• Match: Chelsea 4-3 Brighton
• Fernandez Transfer Fee Demand: £130 million (British record)
• Replacement Target: Lamine Camara (Monaco)
• Neto’s Role Against Brighton: Wing-back
• Neto’s Performance: Scored a goal, constant threat