XABI ALONSO is resolute in his efforts to retain Argentine midfielder Enzo Fernandez, who has expressed a desire to leave Chelsea.
The 25-year-old vice-captain is said to be keen on a transfer to Real Madrid, despite the Spanish club’s public denial of any interest.
Chelsea has put a staggering £120 million price tag on the midfielder, who is also being watched by reigning European champions Paris Saint-Germain.
Fernandez’s agent, Javier Pastore, has suggested looking into options for leaving Stamford Bridge.
Alonso has had discussions with the Argentine international, who is currently in the U.S. preparing for a World Cup semi-final against England on Wednesday.
The new Chelsea manager stated: “We have been in communication, but as you can imagine, our discussions are private.”
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“Do I want to keep him? Absolutely,” Alonso confirmed.
Fernandez has shown an inclination to leave the club since the international break in March, voicing his displeasure at the dismissal of Enzo Maresca in January.
He has also mentioned a transfer to Madrid, citing his dream of living in the Spanish city one day.
The £107 million signing from Benfica remarked: “I’d love to live in Madrid. It’s a beautiful city, similar to Buenos Aires.”
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Following Chelsea’s Champions League elimination to Paris Saint-Germain, he expressed uncertainty regarding his future at the club.
“I’m unsure; we have eight matches remaining and the FA Cup. The World Cup is coming up, and then we’ll see,” he commented.
Earlier this month, Real Madrid issued an unusual statement dismissing any interest in a transfer, while acknowledging Fernandez as a “great footballer.”
They stated: “In light of recent reports and assertions regarding an alleged interest from Real Madrid CF in player Enzo Fernandez, the club wishes to clarify that it has not made any effort, either direct or indirect, to sign him, nor do they intend to pursue such an endeavor.“
Chelsea requires funds this summer, although Marc Cucurella, Andrey Santos, and Tyrique George have been sold for around £120 million, and Alejandro Garnacho is also anticipated to depart, reportedly with a £50 million price tag.
Regarding Garnacho, who is currently absent from training at Cobham, Alonso mentioned: “We have had discussions with the sports directors, and there is interest from other clubs.”
“Let’s see how this evolves, but I hope it turns out positively for all parties involved.”
Alonso also confirmed that Nicolas Jackson, who faced challenges during a loan spell at Bayern Munich after his relationship with Maresca soured, will join the squad for Chelsea’s pre-season tour in Australia and Asia.
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