Xabi Alonso Comments on Enzo Fernandez and Pedro Neto Amidst Transfer Deadline Rush

Xabi Alonso, the Chelsea manager, has revealed that both Enzo Fernandez and Pedro Neto might leave Stamford Bridge before Tuesday's transfer deadline. Fernandez was notably missing from Chelsea's recent 4-3 win against Brighton, as Manchester City prepares a record-breaking bid for the Argentine midfielder.

Fernandez Left Out Again for Brighton Match

Chelsea continued their winning streak in the Premier League with a thrilling victory over Brighton. Yet, all eyes are on the club’s transfer moves. Alonso chose to exclude Fernandez from the squad for the second match running, after a similar omission against Luton in the Carabao Cup earlier in the week.

Reports suggest Fernandez has reached an agreement with Manchester City, while Chelsea demand a British-record fee of £130 million for the midfielder’s transfer. Still, any deal depends on Chelsea securing a suitable replacement first. The Blues are close to signing Monaco's Lamine Camara as they prepare for Fernandez's possible exit.

Alonso Explains Decisions Ahead of Deadline

When asked about leaving Fernandez out, Alonso stressed the decision was made for the good of the team. He acknowledged uncertainty in the coming days but is confident the club can manage the transfer window pressure.

"We'll see. We want the best for the team and that's why we made the decision [to leave Fernandez out] against Luton and today," Alonso told reporters. "Anything that happens before Tuesday evening, we need to be aware of what is going to develop. We are not sure, we are preparing for all scenarios."

The Spanish coach believes the squad will remain strong regardless of changes. "I am sure that whatever happens from Wednesday we will have a good enough squad to compete in all the Premier League games," he said.

Pedro Neto's Future Still Unclear

While Fernandez’s departure seems likely, Pedro Neto is also under scrutiny. Several top Premier League clubs have shown interest in the Portuguese winger, who was played out of position as a wing-back against Brighton.

Neto impressed by scoring and constantly threatening the opposition. When asked if Neto will definitely stay, Alonso declined to promise anything.

"No, in football I don't guarantee anything, not anyone," Alonso admitted. "But I was very happy with Pedro. He did really well, he played with a lot of energy. He is going to be very important for the team for the whole season because he has different special qualities."

He added praise for Neto’s attacking skills, strength, and competitiveness. "He is a threat in one-v-one, he attacks very well in space, he is strong, he is competitive. I am happy that he scored, he was really close to scoring another one. I am very happy with Pedro."

Chelsea Prepare for Intense Transfer Deadline Day

Chelsea face a hectic final day of the transfer window, balancing potential high-profile sales with urgent signings. Completing the Camara deal would likely speed up Fernandez’s move to the Etihad Stadium. After Tuesday’s deadline, Alonso plans to focus entirely on the Premier League campaign, hoping his squad can keep their perfect start intact.