---
title: "Chelsea ‘preparing’ early £86 million bid for “fantastic” Enzo Fernandez replacement"
canonical: "https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/chelsea-pablo-barrios-86m-enzo-fernandez-replacement/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "Barnaby Lane"
section: "Chelsea Transfer Rumours"
published: "2026-09-04T12:43:52Z"
modified: "2026-09-04T12:44:00Z"
---

# Chelsea ‘preparing’ early £86 million bid for “fantastic” Enzo Fernandez replacement

[Chelsea](https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/chelsea-fc-transfer-rumours/) were left frustrated on [deadline day after losing Enzo Fernandez to Manchester City](https://chelseanews.com/blog/chelsea-transfer-news-deadline-day-departures/), with the midfielder reuniting with former Blues boss Enzo Maresca in a British-record transfer.

The Blues immediately looked for a replacement, but moves for Monaco’s Lamine Camara and Roma’s Manu Koné failed to materialise.

Now, Chelsea appear ready to return to the market in January with a major move for a La Liga midfielder.

## **Chelsea Preparing Barrios Bid**

[According to reports relayed the Evening Standard](https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news-live-arsenal-fc-chelsea-man-utd-liverpool-richarlison-turkey-b1284294.html), Chelsea are preparing a €100m (£86 million) offer for Atletico Madrid star Pablo Barrios when the January window opens.

The 23-year-old has emerged as a leading target, with Xabi Alonso reportedly viewing the Spain international as a potential replacement for Fernandez.

Barrios has become an important figure for Diego Simeone’s side, but Chelsea believe a huge offer could tempt Atletico into negotiations.

The midfielder has impressed Simeone, [who previously described him as “fantastic”,](https://www.intothecalderon.com/2023/8/5/23820815/diego-simeone-pablo-barrios-atletico-madrid-manchester-city-sevilla-laliga-friendly-summer-tour) and his technical ability could make him an attractive addition to Alonso’s midfield.

Chelsea are therefore expected to make a serious push for Barrios as they look to strengthen following Fernandez’s departure.