Xabi Alonso has confirmed that Alejandro Garnacho is free to leave Chelsea this summer after holding talks to keep Enzo Fernandez. The Argentinian duo have both been linked with moves away from Stamford Bridge.
Fernandez, 25, has been linked with Real Madrid this summer, with reports suggesting that the Argentine was open to a move. The Spanish giants quickly clarified their position and confirmed that they had not made a move to sign him.
Regardless, that has not calmed suggestions that Fernandez could be on the move before the start of next season. Meanwhile, it has been reported that Chelsea would be happy to sell Garnacho just a year after signing him for £40million from Manchester United.
Alonso's Stance on Garnacho
New Chelsea boss Alonso has confirmed that the relevant parties are in discussions to potentially facilitate an exit for the forward. Speaking in his introductory press conference, he said: "Well the situation is that we have spoken with the sporting directors. There is an interest for him [Garnacho] from other clubs. So let's see how this develops. But hopefully, it finishes in the best possible way for other clubs."
And while it appears that Garnacho can leave, Alonso has confirmed that he remains keen to keep Fernandez at Chelsea after holding one-to-one talks with the midfielder.
Fernandez's Future Secured
The former Liverpool star said: "We have spoken, but that remains private." Asked further if he wants Fernandez to stay, Alonso simply replied: “Yes.”
Fernandez joined Chelsea from Portuguese giants Benfica for £106m back in 2023 and he has gone on to make 169 appearances and scored 31 goals - 15 of which came last season. The midfielder has yet to return to West London due to his commitments at the World Cup and is part of an Argentina side who will face England in the semi finals.
Late Returns and Palmer Praise
Asked how he plans to facilitate for some late returns, Alonso said: "It was already a plan. It's not a big surprise we have some players still there. I'm happy for them, because they are having an unforgettable experience. At the end, hopefully we will have one champion and we will celebrate. We have to be flexible and we'll have to speed up the preparation with some players."
Another player that looks sure to remain at Stamford Bridge alongside Fernandez is Cole Palmer. The England star has been a shining light for the Blues over the past couple of seasons and Alonso has been full of praise for his new playmaker.
He said: "We have had a few training sessions already. From the first day you can see he [Palmer] is a special talent. It's not easy to have one of those, you notice his quality and how he wants to play, his decisions. I'm happy that he comes in a good mood, with a good mindset to have a great season, we are looking forward to getting the best out of him. He will be a key player."
