Chelsea could see an exodus of top players from their squad after a disappointing season that saw the departure of two managers. There’s a strong possibility that the Blues won’t be able to appear in any European competition, let alone the Champions League, in the next campaign.
Enzo Fernandez is one of the individuals who could be on his way out. In fact, he was recently handed a two-match sanction by the club for a controversial interview in which he admitted he would like to live in Madrid someday. Incidentally, he has been linked with a move to the Bernabeu for years now.
As a result, Chelsea might not be taking any chances and shortlisting possible replacements if Fernandez indeed leaves in the summer. Meanwhile, reports have emerged suggesting that the club are monitoring a promising Premier League midfielder to fill the void that would be left by the Argentinian in such a scenario.
According to TEAMtalk, Chelsea, along with Manchester United, Manchester City, Liverpool and Paris Saint-Germain, have been impressed by the performances of West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes. They are keeping an eye on the player.
West Ham relegation could help Chelsea in Mateus Fernandes pursuit
West Ham are reportedly trying their best to keep the youngster at the club for the foreseeable future. That said, relegation could, and probably would, change the situation.
The Hammers are in 17th place, just above the relegation zone. On top of that, they lost this weekend at the hands of Brentford.
Things could get worse for them if Tottenham Hotspur pick up some wins in the next few matches. That might result in relegation for the Hammers. In that case, Chelsea would have their task cut out in pursuit of the player.
Fernandes has cemented his place in West Ham’s midfield. He has started 97% of all Premier League matches so far this season. Also, he has appeared in 39 matches in all competitions and scored five goals along with four assists.
Mateus Fernandes is yet to prove himself on the big stages
The Portuguese prefers to play as a central midfielder but can also operate in multiple other positions. That includes left and right midfield, defensive midfield, the number 10 role, and as a left winger as well.
The 21-year-old’s profile fits some of the major requirements Chelsea would look for in a replacement for Fernandez. It will be interesting to see if the club end up making a move for him in the summer.
There’s little doubt that Fernandes is an incredibly talented player. However, he has not proven his mettle on the biggest stages. When Chelsea signed Fernandez, he had already won the World Cup with Argentina. On the other hand, the West Ham man is currently fighting relegation.
So Chelsea will have to think carefully before proceeding, despite the undeniable potential of the Portuguese midfielder. After all, it won’t be easy for the Blues to replace someone as impactful as Fernandez. And signing someone from a relegated team for that role won’t please the fans.
