Chelsea weigh replacements as Fernández exit talk grows

Chelsea face a complicated final week of the summer 2026 window, with Enzo Fernández now closer than ever to leaving Stamford Bridge. Manchester City, led by former Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca, are pushing hard for the Argentina midfielder and a bid of about £120 million has been mentioned.

Fernández was not in the squad against Luton in the League Cup, and new Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso said the call was based on individual and team assessment. Chelsea have made any sale conditional on finding a suitable replacement first.

Camara and Scott on the shortlist

According to Sasha Tavolieri, Chelsea have identified Lamine Camara as one of the main options to replace Fernández. The 22-year-old Monaco midfielder, who signed off last season with three goals and four assists in 31 Ligue 1 appearances, has also attracted interest from the Premier League.

Monaco are keen to keep him, though, and would only consider what they see as an exceptional offer. Chelsea and Monaco have stepped up talks in recent days, with a fee in the region of €50 million to €60 million, or about £51 million, being discussed.

Alex Scott of Bournemouth is another target. Chelsea already had a £64 million bid rejected, and Bournemouth have said he will stay. Adam Wharton, Mikel Merino and Eduardo Camavinga have also been mentioned on Chelsea’s shortlist, but Fernández’s replacement is far from straightforward.