Xabi Alonso expects Enzo Fernandez to be involved in Chelsea‘s EFL Cup tie with Luton Town, but was noncommittal when asked about his future amid continued interest from Manchester City.

Former Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca is keen to lure Fernandez to the Etihad Stadium as the final piece of City’s midfield revamp.

Chelsea had set a deadline of last Friday for City to sign the Argentina international. However, they are still said to be open to a sale if they get at least £120million and are able to sign a replacement.

Fernandez’s Chelsea future remains a doubt as transfer deadline nears

Fernandez was a second-half substitute as Alonso’s men began their Premier League campaign with a 3-2 win over west London rivals Fulham.

And, while Alonso is planning on having Fernandez available on Thursday against League One Luton, he did not give a commitment about him still being a Chelsea player after the September 1 transfer deadline.

“We expect Enzo to be involved. He’s training really well and he will be involved,” Alonso told a pre-match press conference.

Asked if he would Fernandez to remain with Chelsea beyond the deadline, Alonso replied: “We want to have the best team possible.

“We know his qualities, he has shown it and we have to wait, but we will think about tomorrow and let’s see how things develop.”

Chelsea have already made 11 signings in the transfer window, but Fernandez would leave a substantial hole if he did depart for City.

On the need for a replacement if a significant player leaves, Alonso said: “We assess the whole squad as a unit and in that squad we want good balance in terms of quality, in terms of positions, in terms of personalities, so we are aware of everything and we are prepared for whatever.”