Xabi Alonso has brushed off speculation linking Enzo Fernández with a summer exit from Chelsea, confirming the Argentina midfielder remains very much part of the club's plans.

Despite Chelsea initially signaling they might allow the midfielder to depart, they set a deadline of 5 p.m. BST on Friday, Aug. 14 for interested clubs to make a move. Manchester City were among those linked with the midfielder, valued at £120 million, but no deal materialized.

Sources told ESPN that Chelsea have since communicated directly with Fernández's representatives, indicating they expect him to remain at the club until at least next summer. When asked about his status on Thursday, Alonso stated: "Enzo is a Chelsea player. He's a top, top player. He's training really well. We are happy with him and he's getting ready for Monday."

Chelsea open their 2026-27 Premier League campaign against Fulham at Craven Cottage on Monday, with Alonso facing former Real Madrid teammate Alvaro Arbeloa.