As the summer transfer window enters its closing phase, Chelsea and Xabi Alonso face a busy period ahead of the deadline.
While the focus remains on tonight’s match against Fulham, the club’s five sporting directors will be working hard behind the scenes during what promises to be an exceptionally busy week for the west London side.
Chelsea sources have remained calm throughout the summer regarding Fernandez, despite the noisy speculation surrounding his future.
The Blues had placed a £120million valuation on Fernandez, but those terms were withdrawn earlier this month after Manchester City declined to meet an unofficial deadline set by their rivals. City continue to monitor Fernandez, though time is running out ahead of the official cutoff.
Supporters will scrutinise the team announcement at 6:45pm this evening to see if Fernandez has been included in Alonso’s first Premier League lineup.
Chelsea have considerable outgoings to finalise before the window closes. At present, it appears unlikely the Blues will make additional signings, though sources suggest another arrival cannot be entirely ruled out.
The primary task will be reducing Alonso’s squad through player sales.
Al-Hilal want to sign Sarr permanently, but Chelsea have communicated their preference for a loan arrangement for the 20-year-old defender, who also has Premier League interest on a temporary basis. Anselmino has been available for loan throughout the summer, though the Argentine defender’s injury has created uncertainty.
Chelsea anticipate Adarabioyo will depart Stamford Bridge permanently. The 28-year-old former Manchester City defender has attracted interest from other Premier League clubs as well as Marseille, Sevilla and Benfica.
Disasi is poised to move to Crystal Palace on a season-long loan. The French defender is expected to join Selhurst Park on a straightforward temporary basis without any purchase options.
Essugo could depart on loan before next month’s cutoff. Chelsea made the 21-year-old midfielder available for temporary moves last week. Sources indicate interest from both domestic and foreign clubs in the Portuguese central midfielder.
Leeds United continue their pursuit of Chelsea winger Mudryk, according to insiders. The 25-year-old is available for a loan move this season, with the Whites having a bid turned down last week. Strasbourg remains an option, alongside other potential Premier League destinations.
Jackson faces a pivotal few days regarding his future. Aston Villa hold strong interest in the Senegalese striker, whom Chelsea value at £65million. Jackson is understood to be receptive to joining Villa Park to link up with his former Villarreal manager Unai Emery.
Chelsea are willing to sanction Jackson’s departure. The same applies to Delap, valued at approximately £50million, with Everton among several Premier League clubs pursuing the former Ipswich Town forward.
Chelsea are aiming to sell Fofana before the September 1 cutoff. Sources close to the club also anticipate Guiu will leave permanently before the window shuts.