Five Midfielders Chelsea Could Sign in January to Replace Enzo Fernández

After Enzo Fernández departed for Manchester City on Deadline Day, Chelsea found themselves without a direct midfield replacement. This shortfall might push the Blues to pursue a high-profile midfielder during the upcoming January transfer window.

The summer window was impressive for Chelsea in many ways, but missing out on replacing Fernández stands out as a major gap. His move to City broke records and contributed to Chelsea generating an unprecedented $700 million (£519 million) from outgoing transfers—the highest ever in football history.

With Fernández's transfer finalized so late, Chelsea had minimal time to find a substitute. Although they tried, no deal was completed before the window closed. The squad looked thin centrally, a concern that showed when Xabi Alonso’s improvised midfield struggled in their 2–1 loss to Arsenal. For now, Alonso will work with the current players, but January reinforcements seem likely.

Winter signings usually come at a premium, but Chelsea have not hesitated to spend heavily midseason—Fernández himself arrived for a record fee in the January 2023 window. Here are five midfield options Chelsea might pursue next month to fill the void left by Fernández.

Frenkie De Jong

Frenkie de Jong remains one of the world's top central midfielders when fit. A move to Chelsea may seem bold, yet it’s not out of reach. Since the 2026 World Cup, De Jong has not played due to a partial MCL tear. Barcelona want him to have surgery, but he prefers conservative treatment, aiming for a return around October.

Barcelona’s midfield depth is immense. With Rodri joining, he is expected to partner Pedri, pushing De Jong further down the pecking order alongside talents like Gavi and Marc Bernal. Barcelona’s frustration over his injuries and competition could make them willing to sell.

Chelsea showed interest in De Jong back in 2022, and if he recovers soon, reigniting that pursuit in January could be worthwhile.

Manu Koné

Manu Koné almost joined Chelsea last summer but was blocked by AS Roma’s manager Gian Piero Gasperini. The French international’s physical style and ability to win duels make him a strong candidate to partner Moisés Caicedo in midfield.

Chelsea reportedly offered $70.2 million (£52 million) plus winger Jamie Gittens on loan, but the deal fell through due to Roma’s refusal. Koné’s blend of ball skills and defensive grit fits Chelsea’s needs well.

Checking on his availability again in January might prove smart. Gasperini’s stance could soften if Roma finds a replacement or harder if their season progresses strongly.

Adam Wharton

Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace has attracted interest from numerous Premier League clubs and even Real Madrid. At 22, he is a creative and technically gifted midfielder who pushes play forward aggressively.

Wharton complements Caicedo well, sharing a playing style similar to Fernández’s. Despite fierce competition for his signature, Chelsea might consider making a serious offer in January given his potential and impact.

Lamine Camara

Lamine Camara came close to joining Chelsea on Deadline Day, with Monaco accepting a $63.7 million (£47.1 million) bid before pulling out last minute. The reversal happened after Monaco thought they agreed to sell Folarin Balogun to Everton, leaving both deals stalled.

Camara is a dynamic midfielder who combines defensive tenacity with reliable ball control. After the failed transfer, he starred for Monaco against Paris Saint-Germain, winning 12 duels and making eight defensive actions.

Chelsea did agree personal terms with Camara for a six-year contract. Despite strained relations with Monaco, a renewed January approach seems possible.

Alex Scott

Alex Scott has been a target for Chelsea since before Fernández's departure. The Blues offered Bournemouth $86 million (£64 million), but the club refused to sell. Scott remains Chelsea’s top midfield target for January.

At 23, Scott embodies the modern midfielder—strong defensively, skillful with the ball, and dangerous going forward. Bournemouth recently sold winger Antoine Semenyo midseason, hinting Scott could be next for a big winter transfer.

Scott commands attention across England, and his price could reach near $100 million. Still, Chelsea would likely view this as a worthwhile investment for a player with world-class potential.