Alonso confirms Garnacho free to leave Chelsea while vowing to keep Fernandez

Xabi Alonso confirmed at his Chelsea introductory press conference that Alejandro Garnacho is available for transfer this summer, while making clear he intends to retain Enzo Fernandez after holding one-to-one talks with the Argentine midfielder.

Asked directly about Garnacho’s future, the new Blues head coach said: “There is an interest for him from other clubs. So let’s see how this develops. But hopefully, it finishes in the best possible way for other clubs.” Chelsea signed the winger from Manchester United for £40 million just last year, but reports have suggested the club would be willing to sell.

On Fernandez, Alonso was brief but unambiguous. Confirming the two had spoken privately, he was asked whether he wants the midfielder to stay. “Yes,” he replied. Fernandez, 25, joined Chelsea from Benfica for £106 million in 2023 and has made 169 appearances for the club, scoring 31 goals — 15 of them last season. He has been linked with a return to Real Madrid, though the Spanish club moved quickly to deny making any approach.

Fernandez is currently absent from pre-season as part of the Argentina squad at the World Cup, where they face England in the semi-finals. Alonso said he had already factored in the late returns of World Cup players: “It was already a plan. It’s not a big surprise we have some players still there. I’m happy for them, because they are having an unforgettable experience. We have to be flexible and we’ll have to speed up the preparation with some players.”

Alonso also spoke warmly about Cole Palmer, who looks certain to remain at Stamford Bridge. “From the first day you can see he is a special talent. It’s not easy to have one of those — you notice his quality and how he wants to play, his decisions,” the manager said. “I’m happy that he comes in a good mood, with a good mindset to have a great season.”

The futures of Garnacho and Fernandez represent two of the most significant decisions facing Chelsea as Alonso begins to shape his squad ahead of the new Premier League campaign.