Chelsea are willing to part ways with Enzo Fernandez this summer — but only if Manchester City meet their asking price and the club can strengthen their squad before the transfer window shuts.

No formal discussions between the two clubs have taken place yet, though Fernandez's omission from Chelsea's Carabao Cup victory over Luton on Thursday raised eyebrows. Manager Xabi Alonso described the Argentine as a "good professional" who has been training well, adding that a call on his availability for Sunday's Premier League fixture against Brighton would be made closer to kick-off.

A deadline missed, a price set

City's interest in Fernandez remains firm despite the club failing to submit a bid before Chelsea's August 14 deadline. Chelsea had reached an agreement with Fernandez's representatives that he could leave for £120m by that date — an offer that never materialised from City's end.

Alonso acknowledged the club are "prepared for whatever" happens in the final days of the window, leaving the door open for further departures.

Midfield targets on both sides

As Chelsea seek reinforcements in central midfield, Bournemouth's Alex Scott and Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton have been identified as options — though both clubs regard those players as unsellable. City are also monitoring Scott, alongside Roma's Manu Kone.

The urgency to bolster midfield has intensified at City following Rodri's move to Barcelona earlier this month. Nico Gonzalez has also departed, joining Newcastle in a deal worth up to £50m. City did complete one major midfield signing this week, bringing in Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille for £86m — a world-record fee for a teenager.

Chelsea agree Martinez deal

In a separate development, Chelsea have struck a £7.5m agreement with Aston Villa to sign goalkeeper Emi Martinez. The move comes after current number one Robert Sanchez drew criticism for an error during Monday's win at Fulham.

Martinez became available after Villa secured Japan international Zion Suzuki from Parma for nearly £30m. Juventus had also shown interest in Martinez, but ultimately opted to sign Guglielmo Vicario from Tottenham Hotspur instead.

With Martinez set to arrive at Stamford Bridge, questions now surround the futures of both Sanchez and Mike Penders. Penders started Thursday's Carabao Cup tie with Luton, while Sanchez had played in the opening Premier League match against Fulham.