Xabi Alonso on Enzo Fernandez and Pedro Neto: Transfer Updates as Fernandez Nears Record Move to Man City

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso revealed that both Enzo Fernandez and Pedro Neto might leave Stamford Bridge before the transfer window closes on Tuesday. Fernandez was absent again from Chelsea’s win over Brighton, amid talks of a record-breaking bid from Manchester City for the Argentine midfielder.

Fernandez Left Out Against Brighton

Chelsea secured a thrilling 4-3 victory over Brighton, maintaining their strong start to the Premier League season. Yet, all eyes remain on the transfer market. Alonso chose not to include Fernandez in his squad for the second straight match, after a similar omission during the Carabao Cup game against Luton earlier in the week.

The Argentine is reportedly close to agreeing terms with Manchester City, who are ready to offer a British-record fee around £130 million. Chelsea, though, want to ensure they have a suitable replacement before letting Fernandez go. The club has reportedly agreed on terms with Monaco midfielder Lamine Camara to prepare for Fernandez’s possible exit.

Alonso Explains His Decisions Amid Transfer Speculation

"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 scenarios."

The coach remains confident about Chelsea’s squad depth despite the uncertainty. "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.

Neto’s Future Also Unclear

Pedro Neto faces a similarly uncertain future. Several top Premier League clubs are interested in the Portuguese winger, who played in an unusual wing-back position against Brighton. Despite the transfer talk, Neto impressed by scoring and consistently threatening the opposition defense.

Asked if Neto would definitely stay, Alonso said, "No, in football I don’t guarantee anything, not anyone. 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 this season because he has different special qualities."

He continued praising Neto’s skills: "He is a threat in one-v-one, he attacks very well in space, he is strong, he is competitive. I’m happy that he scored and was close to scoring another. I am very happy with Pedro."

Transfer Deadline Approaches

Chelsea face a hectic final day of the transfer window, balancing potential big departures with new arrivals. Securing Camara’s signing could speed up Fernandez’s move to Manchester City. Once the window closes, Alonso will focus entirely on the Premier League, aiming to keep Chelsea’s perfect winning streak alive.