EPL: Chelsea happy with Fernandez – Alonso

Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso has insisted the club are happy with Enzo Fernandez as speculation continues over the midfielder’s future at Stamford Bridge.

Fernandez has been linked with a move away from Chelsea, with Manchester City reportedly interested in the 25-year-old Argentina international.

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However, Chelsea have informed Fernandez’s representatives that the midfielder is not for sale this summer after the August 14 deadline for a formal bid passed without an offer.

Speaking ahead of Chelsea’s Premier League opener against Fulham, Alonso said Fernandez remains focused on the club.

“Enzo is a Chelsea player. We are happy with him and he’s getting ready for Monday,” Alonso said, as reported by BBC Sport on Thursday.

The Spaniard also praised the midfielder’s attitude since returning to the squad.

“He has integrated really well since rejoining the group after the World Cup and is training really well.

“I see him with a really good attitude and that’s what we want,” Alonso added.

Manchester City remain interested in Fernandez as they look to strengthen their midfield, but Chelsea’s current position is that the player will stay at Stamford Bridge.

Fernandez has received a mixed reception from some Chelsea supporters during pre-season, although the club demonstrated its confidence in him by handing him the captain’s armband during the friendly victory over Real Sociedad.

With the transfer window set to close on September 1, Fernandez’s future remains a talking point, but Alonso’s comments suggest Chelsea are planning for the midfielder to remain an important part of his squad.