Enzo Fernandes in action for Chelsea against Nottingham Forest last season (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
Chelsea have already started to replace unstable midfield star Enzo Fernandes ahead of this summer.
Industry sources told me this afternoon that Chelsea’s leaders have been doing extensive work on three key targets for the position, with other players potentially joining the equation soon.
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As we said earlier this season, One name Chelsea really likes is Elliot AndersonHowever, it is recognized that Manchester City and Manchester United may already be further ahead at the moment.
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As mentioned in that report, some people close to Chelsea have long felt that Fernandes’ departure should not be ruled out, and the Argentine’s future now appears more uncertain than ever.
Fernandes himself has fueled speculation. His comments after the defeat to PSG sparked discussion about his future and we have since heard talk that he could be leaving Stamford Bridge. May reach 99%.
Several more well-placed sources, who requested anonymity to protect their relationships, said they had had doubts about Fernandes for some time.
Looking at the 25-year-old’s contributions on the pitch, it is safe to say that while he was of high quality at one time, he has not been consistent enough to justify the high fee that CFC paid him.
“Chelsea ideally don’t want to sell, but they are also realistic about Enzo’s situation ahead of this summer,” a source told me. “It’s been talked about for a while, so I think we’re ready.”
As has been the case under this Chelsea ownership, the club will again look at elite young talent in midfield if they need to replace Fernandes.
As multiple sources have confirmed, Anderson is high on Chelsea’s list but should be kept in mind as well. AZ Alkmaar Sensation Keith Smitand Wolves teenager Matheus Mane.
As mentioned earlier, Anderson is highly sought after by two Manchester clubs and will cost Chelsea over £100m, so it will not be an easy deal for Chelsea.
Still, I’ve heard many people within the club are optimistic that the team would be in “much better shape” if they were able to bring in Anderson as a potential replacement for Fernandes.
Smit and Mane are slightly inexperienced and immature players, but they are still liked by Chelsea’s recruitment team, and the Blues could be willing to sign either of them with a bit more track record (but ideally under the age of 24).
