Chelsea Excludes Fernandez as Manchester City Move Looms

Spanish manager Xabi Alonso has left Argentine midfielder Enzo Fernandez out of the Chelsea squad for the match against Luton Town on Thursday evening, in the second round of the EFL Cup, a development that adds to the uncertainty surrounding the midfielder's future at the London club.

Alonso had confirmed before the match that Fernandez would be in his plans, noting that the player had trained well and was committed and professional in his work. However, his name was surprisingly absent from Chelsea's 20-man squad for the clash.

The exclusion of the 25-year-old player comes at a time when speculation is growing regarding his potential departure from Chelsea, with Manchester City showing strong interest in securing his services before the summer transfer window closes.

According to reports, Manchester City is set to make a bid that could reach £100 million for the Argentine midfielder, but Chelsea is holding out for a higher amount, believed to be around £120 million.

Alonso spoke about Fernandez's future before the match, emphasizing his desire to keep the best elements of his team, but he left the door open to all possibilities, as the management seeks to achieve the necessary balance within the squad.

This comes after reports indicated that Fernandes has approved a move to Manchester City, with expectations that the club will make a formal offer in the final days of the transfer window.

Fernandes' absence from the Luton match is a significant indicator, especially since the coaching staff had previously announced his readiness to participate. This opens the door to further speculation regarding the player's situation and his future with Chelsea in the coming hours.