Xabi Alonso expects Enzo Fernandez to be involved in Chelseas EFL Cup tie with Luton Town, but was noncommittal when asked about his future amid continued interest from Manchester City. Former Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca is keen to lure Fernandez to the Etihad Stadium as the final piece of Citys midfield revamp.Chelsea had set a deadline of last Friday for City to sign the Argentina international. However, they are still said to be open to a sale if they get at least �120million and are able to sign a replacement.Fernandezs Chelsea future remains a doubt as transfer deadline nearsFernandez was a second-half substitute as Alonsos men began their Premier League campaign with a 3-2 win over west London rivals Fulham.And, while Alonso is planning on having Fernandez available on Thursday against League One Luton, he did not give a commitment about him still being a Chelsea player after the September 1 transfer deadline.We expect Enzo to be involved. Hes training really well and he will be involved, Alonso told a pre-match press conference.Asked if he would Fernandez to remain with Chelsea beyond the deadline, Alonso replied: We want to have the best team possible. We know his qualities, he has shown it and we have to wait, but we will think about tomorrow and lets see how things develop.Chelsea have already made 11 signings in the transfer window, but Fernandez would leave a substantial hole if he did depart for City.On the need for a replacement if a significant player leaves, Alonso said: We assess the whole squad as a unit and in that squad we want good balance in terms of quality, in terms of positions, in terms of personalities, so we are aware of everything and we are prepared for whatever. Topics Chelsea F.C. Premier League Add us as a preferred source on Google If you enjoy reading this article, you can help support our independent football journalism by adding 101 Great Goals as a preferred source You Should Also Read Full EFL Cup third round draw details including where to watch Ben Miller 26th August, 2026 Chelsea considering move for Aston Villa keeper Martinez Mitch Fretton 26th August, 2026 Chelsea vs Luton: Preview, expected line-ups, stats and where to watch Mitch Fretton 26th August, 2026 Ayyoub Bouaddi: Man City sign Lille midfielder in �85.6m transfer Jon Fisher 26th August, 2026 When is the Champions League draw? Date, time, schedule, where to watch Ben Miller 26th August, 2026 When does the transfer window close? Deadline day dates, times, latest news Ben Miller 26th August, 2026
