New Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has publicly declared his desire to keep midfielder Enzo Fernandez at the club. Alonso, unveiled at Stamford Bridge on Monday, directly responded "yes" when asked about retaining the 25-year-old Argentinian.
"We have spoken. But, as you can understand, what we said will remain private," Alonso stated during his first wide-ranging news conference since taking charge. Fernandez, who is preparing to represent Argentina in the World Cup semi-finals, had been linked with Real Madrid. However, the Spanish club denied pursuing the player last week. Fernandez has a reported £120 million asking price.
Alonso also confirmed that striker Nicolas Jackson will rejoin the squad for at least the club's upcoming pre-season tour of Australia and Asia. Bayern Munich had previously opted against making Jackson's loan move permanent.
"Nico Jackson is joining the tour in Asia and we are looking forward to him working with us," Alonso said.
Regarding winger Alejandro Garnacho, Alonso indicated there is an agreement for the player to be absent from first-team training as he seeks a transfer. Italian club Roma is among those reportedly interested in Garnacho.
"There is interest in him from other clubs. Hopefully, it finishes in the best possible way for everyone," the new manager commented.
Alonso, who began his role last Thursday following his departure from Real Madrid in January, set a target of qualifying for European competition in his inaugural season. He expressed gratitude to the sporting directors and owners for appointing him.
"I want to enjoy it, be part of this club and work with the sporting directors. It is a club with great potential," Alonso said. "We need to make the right decisions, but we have a strong base to build on. We need to build on this foundation to be successful on the pitch."