Five Midfielders Chelsea Could Target to Replace Enzo Fernández in January

Chelsea’s Search for an Enzo Fernández Replacement

Chelsea missed the chance to replace Enzo Fernández before the summer transfer window closed, leaving the club with a midfield gap that could force action in January. Fernández’s high-profile move to Manchester City marked a record-breaking summer for Chelsea, who saw over $700 million (£519 million) in player sales, but failed to bring in a like-for-like midfielder before deadline day.

With only limited time on transfer deadline day, Chelsea could not finalize a replacement, and the weakness in midfield was clear during their 2–1 loss to Arsenal. Manager Xabi Alonso had to make do with his available options, but adding another midfielder in the upcoming January window might become a priority.

Winter signings tend to be costly, yet Chelsea has previously invested heavily mid-season—Fernández himself was a record signing in January 2023. Here are five midfielders Chelsea could target as potential replacements next month.

Frenkie De Jong

Frenkie de Jong of Barcelona is among the world’s top central midfielders when healthy. Though Chelsea’s interest may seem bold, it might not be out of reach. De Jong hasn’t played since the 2026 World Cup due to a partial MCL tear and has avoided surgery so far, hoping for a quicker recovery. If he returns by October, Chelsea could revive their earlier interest from 2022.

Barcelona’s midfield is crowded with talent, especially after adding Rodri, who seems set to partner Pedri regularly. With players like Gavi and Marc Bernal also competing, De Jong might find his starting spot at risk even when fit. Barcelona’s frustration with his injuries might open the door for a sale.

Manu Koné

Manu Koné almost joined Chelsea last summer, but AS Roma manager Gian Piero Gasperini blocked the move. Chelsea reportedly offered about $70.2 million (£52 million) plus winger Jamie Gittens on loan, but Roma refused to let the French international leave.

At 25, Koné is a strong duel-winner and ball carrier who covers ground well in midfield. He could complement Moisés Caicedo perfectly in a double-pivot, helping create space for Chelsea’s attackers. Chelsea could revisit this pursuit in January if Roma’s position softens or if they find a replacement.

Adam Wharton

Adam Wharton from Crystal Palace has attracted attention from major Premier League clubs and even Real Madrid. The 22-year-old is known for his technical skill and progressive passing, constantly seeking to break lines and support attacks. His style resembles Fernández’s, making him an ideal candidate.

Wharton is still developing, and Palace might struggle to keep hold of him after interest over two summers. Chelsea could face stiff competition but pushing for him in January might be worthwhile.

Lamine Camara

Lamine Camara came close to joining Chelsea on deadline day until AS Monaco withdrew at the last moment. Monaco had accepted a $63.7 million (£47.1 million) bid but backed out due to uncertainty around selling Folarin Balogun to Everton. Neither club benefited, and Chelsea missed out on a midfielder who had agreed personal terms and was ready for a six-year deal.

Camara impressed soon after returning to Monaco, dominating defensively in a win over Paris Saint-Germain. Despite tension between the clubs, Chelsea might try again to sign the 22-year-old in January.

Alex Scott

Alex Scott of Bournemouth was a January target even before Fernández left Chelsea. The Blues reportedly offered $86 million (£64 million), but Bournemouth refused to sell. Scott remains a top choice to replace Fernández, with his blend of defensive work, distribution, and attacking threat.

Scott is only 23 and has become central to Bournemouth’s play. Given Bournemouth’s recent willingness to sell star winger Antoine Semenyo in January, Scott could be next to move for a significant fee. Like Wharton, Scott has many admirers, and Chelsea would likely need to break the bank for him.

Summary of Potential Replacements

• Frenkie De Jong: Barcelona, recovering from injury, uncertain place in team
• Manu Koné: AS Roma, strong midfielder blocked transfer last summer
• Adam Wharton: Crystal Palace, young, highly rated, Premier League experience
• Lamine Camara: AS Monaco, near deal collapse on deadline day
• Alex Scott: Bournemouth, rising star, big money potential