Man City target Fernandez to feature in EFL Cup for Chelsea

Xabi Alonso confirmed Enzo Fernandez is set to be involved in Chelsea's EFL Cup tie against Luton Town, despite interest from Manchester City.

Fernandez was linked with City earlier this month, though Chelsea's reported deadline for an offer for the midfielder was not met.

The 25-year-old joined Chelsea in January 2023, scoring 31 goals and providing 29 assists in 170 games, but is again heavily linked with a reunion with former boss Enzo Maresca at City.

Among Chelsea players last season (not including the Club World Cup), Fernandez created the most chances (98) and recorded the second-most direct goal involvements (22 – 15 goals, seven assists), while also winning the third-most duels (204).

Fernandez came off the bench in Chelsea's Premier League win over Fulham on Monday, and he is expected to be involved again against Luton.

"Yes, we expect that he's involved," said Alonso when asked if Fernandez would play in the EFL Cup.

"He's trained. He's training really well. He's a good professional, and he will be involved."

And when asked if he expected Fernandez to stay, Alonso said: "We want to have the best team possible. 

"We know his qualities; he has shown them, and we have to wait. We'll think about tomorrow [Luton] and see how things develop."

Chelsea have progressed from 27 of their last 28 EFL Cup ties against sides from outside the top-flight, including the last 19 in a row since a penalty shoot-out defeat to Burnley in November 2008.

The Blues have won their last five meetings with Luton in all competitions, since a 2-0 away loss in the old First Division in December 1991.

"Every cup is important," added Alonso.

"We want to have the best possible team to face Luton and treat it with the respect it deserves."