Xabi Alonso Confirms Enzo Fernandez Will Play in Carabao Cup Amid Manchester City's Late Bid

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has confirmed that Enzo Fernandez is expected to play in the upcoming Carabao Cup match against Luton Town on Thursday, despite ongoing rumors of a late £120 million offer from Premier League rivals Manchester City.

Carabao Cup Plans for Fernandez

Manchester City is reportedly eager to finalize a deal for Fernandez before the transfer window closes, with manager Enzo Maresca keen to add the midfielder to their squad. Though Chelsea set an informal deadline earlier this transfer period, City missed it but still appear ready to push forward with a major bid.

Fernandez, whose valuation stands at £120 million, came off the bench in Chelsea's Premier League opener against Fulham on Monday. Alonso remarked on Fernandez’s condition and readiness, saying: "Yes, so we expect that he's involved. He has trained, he's training really well, he's a good professional and he will be involved."

Fan Reception and Chelsea's Position on Fernandez

Fernandez received cheers from Chelsea fans during his appearance at Craven Cottage, a change from the boos he faced during a pre-season friendly following his controversial role in Argentina’s World Cup semi-final win over England.

When asked about keeping Fernandez, Alonso said Chelsea needs to evaluate the situation carefully: "We want to have the best team possible. We know his qualities. He has shown it and we have to wait, but we will think about tomorrow and let’s see how things develop." Reports suggest Manchester City may submit another offer before the September 1 deadline.

Possible Midfield Replacements if Fernandez Leaves

If Fernandez moves on, Chelsea is eyeing Bournemouth's Alex Scott as a potential replacement. Bournemouth has so far rejected offers, but there’s speculation a bid exceeding £80 million, possibly close to £90 million, might change their stance.

Alonso avoided linking a sale directly to signing a replacement, explaining: "It is always about understanding the context, the situation, timings, circumstances, so there is not a defined rule for everything. You need to know how things have worked, what you want, what you want for the future, so I don’t have the rules in stone. We need to assess each situation."

Looking Ahead for Chelsea and Fernandez

Chelsea’s immediate focus remains on Thursday’s Carabao Cup match where Fernandez is expected to play. Following this, Alonso's squad will prepare for important Premier League fixtures. Meanwhile, Manchester City must act quickly to finalize a suitable proposal before the transfer window closes next week.

• Carabao Cup Fixture: Chelsea vs Luton Town, 27 Aug 2026, 20:30
• Premier League Fixture: Crystal Palace vs Manchester City, 28 Aug 2026, 21:00