Xabi Alonso has confirmed that he wants Enzo Fernandez to remain at Chelsea following private talks with the Argentina midfielder.
Fernández has been linked with a move away from Stamford Bridge this summer and is understood to be open to considering his options.
Real Madrid had been presented as a possible destination. However, the Spanish club recently denied that it was pursuing the 25-year-old, while Chelsea reportedly value him at around £120m.
Alonso was asked directly whether he wanted Fernández to stay during his first major press conference as Chelsea head coach.
“Yes,” he replied.
The Spaniard also confirmed that he had spoken with Fernández but refused to disclose the details of their conversation.
“We have spoken,” Alonso said. “But, as you can understand, what we said will remain private.”
Fernández remains central to Alonso’s midfield plans
Alonso’s response gives Chelsea’s position greater clarity before Fernández returns from the World Cup.
The Argentina international has been preparing to face England in the semi-finals and has not yet trained under the new head coach.
ReadChelsea previously examined how Alonso’s first public comments placed Fernández at the centre of his early plans. His latest answer strengthens the expectation that Chelsea will resist offers below their valuation.
Fernández’s importance has also increased following Andrey Santos’ £50m move to Manchester United. Losing both midfielders in the same window would leave Alonso with another significant recruitment job.
The manager also confirmed Nicolas Jackson will join Chelsea’s pre-season tour of Australia and Asia. Alejandro Garnacho, meanwhile, remains away from first-team training while the club works towards a possible sale.
talkSPORT’s report on Alonso’s press conference says the coach is looking forward to working with Jackson but acknowledged outside interest in Garnacho.
Fernández’s position appears different. Alonso has given Chelsea’s record signing a direct public endorsement before their work together begins.
