New Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has confirmed he has held discussions with midfielder Enzo Fernandez regarding his future at the club. Fernandez has been the subject of intense speculation this summer, with Real Madrid reportedly interested. Alonso, who was officially unveiled as Chelsea's new manager on Monday, stated his desire for Fernandez to remain with the team next season.
"Yes, we have spoken," Alonso said when asked about the Argentinian international. "As you can understand, it remains private, but we have spoken." When pressed on whether he wants to keep Fernandez, Alonso replied, "Yes."
Chelsea has been active in the transfer market, with notable sales including Marc Cucurella to Real Madrid for £47.5 million, Tyrique George to Everton for £22 million, and Andrey Santos to Manchester United for £50 million. The transfer of Santos was confirmed on the same day as Alonso's unveiling.
Alonso emphasized the need for strategic decisions in the transfer window to build a competitive team. "We need to make important decisions, right decisions," he stated. "We have a strong base already built. Now we have to build and build this mentality, to be competitive on the pitch, to win games and enjoy it. We are ambitious. It is important we build the right mentality to compete. I am optimistic to think we will have a great season."
Regarding player performance, Cole Palmer has returned to pre-season training and has impressed Alonso. "From the first day, you can see he's a special talent, a special player," Alonso commented on Palmer. "It's not easy to have one of those. You can notice his quality, how he's able to play, the right decision in the right spot."
Alonso also addressed the situation of Alejandro Garnacho, indicating that the player is likely to leave the club. Garnacho has not returned for pre-season training as he is reportedly for sale after his first season with the team, having been signed from Manchester United for £40 million last summer.
"The situation is we've spoken with the sporting directors. There's interest in him from other clubs. It hopefully finishes in the best way for all parties," Alonso confirmed. The new manager remained non-committal about his preferred formation, stating that he has a plan but will reassess closer to the season's start. "For sure I have something in mind. This is my job. We want to be active, brave, play good football, compete well, but above that, we need good mentality."