Chelsea have started preparing for the possibility of losing Enzo Fernandez as Manchester City continue to pursue the Argentina international.
The Blues endured a difficult 2025-26 campaign and finished 10th in the Premier League. They appointed Xabi Alonso in May and have since reshaped the squad ahead of the new season.
Chelsea have already strengthened several positions this summer. However, Fernandez’s uncertain future could force them back into the market for another midfielder.
Manchester City currently lead the race for the 25-year-old. Chelsea have given interested clubs until 5pm on Friday to find an agreement for his departure.
The London club remain happy to keep Fernandez if nobody meets their demands. Alonso has also made it clear that he would welcome the chance to work with him.
However, Chelsea are making contingency plans rather than waiting for the situation to develop.
According to TEAMtalk, Chelsea have made fresh contact over Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott and Crystal Palace star Adam Wharton.
The Blues have tracked both players for more than 12 months. They have now stepped up their enquiries as they prepare for Fernandez’s potential departure.
The Blues previously submitted an offer for Scott, but Bournemouth rejected it last month. Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester United have also made enquiries without convincing the Cherries to sell.
Bournemouth have not formally valued the 22-year-old. However, TEAMtalk claims an offer exceeding £80 million could test their determination to keep him.
Wharton could command a similarly significant fee. Alonso highly admires the Crystal Palace midfielder and Chelsea already have an established dialogue with Palace.
The clubs have conducted business this summer over Maxence Lacroix. Palace have also shown interest in Chelsea defenders Axel Disasi and Josh Acheampong.
Those players could enter wider discussions if Chelsea decide to make a serious move for Wharton. Chelsea are also assessing Arsenal midfielder Martin Zubimendi and Monaco’s Lamine Camara.
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