Kenya Sport

Xabi Alonso Updates on Enzo Fernandez and Pedro Neto Amid Transfer Window Closing

Xabi Alonso, Chelsea's manager, has revealed that both Enzo Fernandez and Pedro Neto might leave Stamford Bridge before the transfer window shuts on Tuesday. Fernandez was notably missing from Chelsea’s recent 4-3 win over Brighton as Manchester City prepares a record-breaking bid for the Argentine midfielder.

Fernandez Left Out Again for Brighton Match

Chelsea kept their perfect start to the Premier League season with a thrilling victory against Brighton. Yet, much attention remains on the club’s transfer moves. Alonso decided to exclude Fernandez from the matchday squad for the second game running, after a similar absence in the Carabao Cup clash with Luton earlier that week.

The Argentine is said to have agreed terms with Manchester City, while Chelsea demand a staggering £130 million, a British record fee, to let their star player go. Any transfer will hinge on Chelsea securing a suitable replacement first. The club is reportedly close to signing Monaco’s midfielder Lamine Camara as they prepare for Fernandez’s potential exit.

Alonso Comments on Late Transfer Decisions

"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 the scenarios."

The Spanish coach remains confident about his squad’s readiness for the long season ahead. "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 Uncertain

While Fernandez’s departure looks likely, Pedro Neto faces uncertainty too. Several top Premier League clubs are watching the Portuguese winger, who played an unusual wing-back role against Brighton. Despite the speculation, Neto impressed by scoring and constantly threatening opponents.

When asked if Neto would definitely stay at Chelsea, 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 for the whole season because he has different special qualities."

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

Transfer Deadline Approaches for Chelsea

Chelsea face hectic final hours in the transfer window, juggling possible high-profile exits and incoming signings. Finalizing the deal for Lamine Camara could accelerate Fernandez’s move to the Etihad Stadium. Once the deadline passes on Tuesday, Alonso will concentrate fully on domestic competitions, hoping his revamped squad can keep their 100% Premier League winning streak intact.

  • Match: Chelsea 4-3 Brighton & Hove Albion
  • Missing Player: Enzo Fernandez (absent for second consecutive game)
  • Transfer Fee Demand: £130 million (British record for Fernandez)
  • Incoming Target: Lamine Camara (Monaco midfielder)
  • Players Under Watch: Enzo Fernandez, Pedro Neto

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