Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez remains the subject of transfer speculation as the window draws to a close, with manager Xabi Alonso potentially needing to find an alternative should the Argentine depart.
The 2022 World Cup winner could complete a move away from Stamford Bridge before the transfer deadline. Should such a switch materialise, Alonso may turn to one of his former Real Madrid players as a high-profile replacement.
The west London club made an impressive start to their Premier League campaign by defeating Fulham 3-2 on Monday night, though Fernandez observed the opening 65 minutes from the bench before entering the action for Romeo Lavia.
The 25-year-old, who joined from Benfica in 2023 for what was then a British record fee of £106.8million, finds himself in a difficult position. Fernandez has alienated sections of the Chelsea support.
His goal celebration during the World Cup semi-final when Argentina eliminated England has not been forgotten, and his public admission that he wants to leave the club has further damaged his standing with supporters. The midfielder was subjected to loud jeering during a pre-season match against Real Sociedad at Stamford Bridge.
Fernandez continues to be associated with a big-money switch to Manchester City, who are currently without Rodri, but if he departs west London, Chelsea’s preferred target appears likely to remain unavailable. In that scenario, Alonso may need to contact his former club regarding Eduardo Camavinga.
Should Fernandez, reportedly valued at £120m, link up again with former manager Enzo Maresca at the Etihad Stadium, Chelsea would be forced to pursue a suitable alternative before the deadline. However, their efforts to sign Alex Scott from Bournemouth have so far proved unsuccessful.
Scott would fit seamlessly into Alonso’s midfield, yet the south coast club have no desire or need to part with their asset. The Blues have had three offers turned down for the England international this summer, with their most recent bid standing at £68m.
Unless Bournemouth undergo a significant change of approach, Scott will not be heading to Stamford Bridge before the deadline. Camavinga could therefore become the marquee signing the club may be compelled to pursue.
Sources suggest the French international features on Chelsea’s midfield shortlist and would come at a reasonable cost, with Los Blancos reportedly seeking just over £51m for the 23-year-old.
Beyond his status as a French international and his versatility, Camavinga also has prior connection with new Chelsea manager Alonso, who previously expressed belief in his abilities during his time at Real Madrid.
Alonso was in charge of the Spanish club last season before his departure. Ahead of a match against Levante in September, he described Camavinga as someone he had observed through watching his performances, noting his impressive interpretation of the game, considerable potential, and numerous qualities. He indicated there was a place for the player within the project and characterised him as eager and willing.
Chelsea are already aware of their manager’s views on the potential transfer, and if they wish to execute a significant deadline-day signing, Camavinga appears to be the preferred target.