Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso confirms Alejandro Garnacho can leave
New Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has confirmed that Alejandro Garnacho is free to leave the club this summer, while holding private talks to ensure Enzo Fernandez remains at Stamford Bridge.
The young forward has been heavily linked with a departure just a year after arriving in west London for £40m from Manchester United.
Speaking at his introductory press conference, the newly appointed head coach clarified the club’s position on the attacker.
“Well the situation is that we have spoken with the sporting directors,” Alonso stated.
“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.”
Fernandez strictly not for sale
While one Argentinian prepares for an exit, the new Blues boss is determined to retain his compatriot in midfield.
The 25-year-old has established himself as a vital asset since joining from Benfica in 2023, scoring 31 goals in 169 appearances.
Recent reports suggested Real Madrid were circling, although the Spanish giants have since distanced themselves from a potential move.
Alonso revealed he has already held one-on-one discussions with the £106m signing to outline his crucial role ahead of the new campaign.
“We have spoken, but that remains private,” the former Liverpool midfielder explained.
When pressed directly on whether he wanted the central midfielder to stay, the manager offered a definitive one-word answer: “Yes.”
World Cup commitments delay return
The highly rated playmaker is yet to join up with his new club manager due to ongoing international duty.
He is currently part of an Argentina squad preparing to face England in the World Cup semi-finals.
Alonso insisted the delayed return of his key personnel was fully expected and factored into their pre-season schedule.
“It’s not a big surprise we have some players still there. I’m happy for them, because they are having an unforgettable experience,” he noted.
“At the end, hopefully we will have one champion and we will celebrate. We have to be flexible and we’ll have to speed up the preparation with some players.”
Praise for ‘special talent’ Palmer
Alongside Fernandez, another player firmly in the manager’s immediate plans is Cole Palmer.
The England international has been a standout performer for the London club in recent seasons and has already made a strong impression on the training pitch.
“From the first day you can see he is a special talent,” Alonso added.
“It’s not easy to have one of those, you notice his quality and how he wants to play, his decisions. I’m happy that he comes in a good mood, with a good mindset to have a great season.”