Xabi Alonso has turned the Alejandro Garnacho exit from noise into a live transfer story. At his presentation press conference, he said Chelsea had spoken with the sporting directors and that there was interest from other clubs. Chelsea are also trying to land the right deal, with a permanent sale their preference while AS Roma continue to look at a loan-to-buy structure.

Alonso makes Chelsea's position public

Alonso said: "We have spoken with the sporting directors and there is interest in him from other clubs. Let's see how it develops. Hopefully it finishes in the best possible way for all parties."

That is the clearest signal yet that Garnacho is not part of Chelsea's immediate plans. The club's stance on the fee is just as clear. Chelsea have set an asking price of around €50m, while Football365 says they are only opening the door to a permanent transfer. Romano also reported that Roma are only considering an initial loan deal, not a straight purchase.

The output does not really protect Garnacho's case. He scored eight goals and made four assists in 43 competitive games for Chelsea, but only 22 of those were starts. His last five appearances have produced ratings of 6.5, 6.7, 6.6, 6.3 and 6.9, an average of 6.6.

Roma and Napoli are waiting in the market

Roma are the more active suitor for now, and their recent form helps explain why. They have won their last five Serie A matches. Napoli are still in the picture too, and their own last five reads 3 wins, 1 draw and 1 loss.

Romano said Garnacho is open to joining Roma and is not creating problems about the move. That leaves Chelsea with the leverage for now, because the disagreement is over structure rather than interest. Roma want a loan. Chelsea want a sale. Napoli remain a watchful alternative if the price shifts.

Manchester United also have a small stake in how this plays out. They inserted a 10% sell-on clause when Garnacho left last year, so the final deal shape will matter beyond Chelsea and Rome.

The most likely outcome still looks like a permanent exit, not a loan stopgap. Chelsea have drawn the line on that part of the negotiation, and Alonso has now made it public that the player is on the market.

Written by Jack Mercer with AI-assisted research, cross-checked against 4 outlets. How we work →