Chelsea happy with Fernandez, says Alonso

Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso has expressed satisfaction with Enzo Fernandez's attitude since his return to the club, amid ongoing speculation about the Argentine midfielder's future. In late May, Chelsea and Fernandez's agent Javier Pastore agreed that the player could potentially leave for £120 million, setting a deadline of 14 August for any bids.

However, with the deadline passing without a formal offer, Chelsea has informed Fernandez's camp that he is not for sale during this transfer window. Manchester City, managed by Fernandez's former Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca, are interested in signing the 25-year-old, but Alonso has confirmed that the midfielder remains Chelsea's player and is preparing for their upcoming Premier League match against Fulham.

Alonso highlighted Fernandez's integration into the team, noting that he is training well and maintains a positive attitude. The uncertainty around Fernandez's future echoes the Isak saga, as the player desires a move away from Chelsea but the club would demand a significant fee. Manchester City, who are also in advanced talks for Moroccan midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, have looked at Fernandez as a potential target to strengthen their midfield following the departures of Rodri and Bernardo Silva.

Reports suggest Chelsea may be open to selling Fernandez, and they have appointed Jorge Mendes, who also represents winger Pedro Neto, to negotiate the situation. Fernandez's relationship with Chelsea fans has added complexity to the scenario, with mixed reactions during his appearances on the pitch. Despite this, Chelsea demonstrated their commitment by granting him the captain's armband when he replaced Reece James in the recent friendly match.