Alejandro Garnacho is on the verge of completing a £40 million ($54 million) transfer from Manchester United to Chelsea, with Blues manager Enzo Maresca confirming the winger’s presence at the club’s Cobham training ground on Friday.
The two Premier League clubs reportedly reached an agreement on Thursday, with the 21-year-old deemed surplus to requirements at Old Trafford under manager Ruben Amorim. Garnacho arrived at Chelsea’s facilities in southwest London to undergo a medical and finalize personal terms.
“I know he is around here,” Maresca told reporters when asked about Garnacho’s status. “I don’t know exactly where.”
When questioned about how the Argentina international might fit into Chelsea’s plans, Maresca was succinct: “He’s a winger. I see him as a winger.”
The Chelsea boss also hinted at the potential for more transfer movement before the summer window closes on Monday. “You can expect anything, the transfer window is open, anything can happen in and out,” he said.
Maresca confirmed that Cole Palmer will miss Saturday’s clash against Fulham due to a groin injury that ruled him out of the recent match against West Ham. Additionally, Benoit Badiashile and Romeo Lavia remain unavailable as they recover from their respective injuries.
“Cole we need to see day by day,” Maresca explained. “Romeo and Benoit – I don’t think they will be back after the international break but they will be closer.”
The manager also commented on Lavia’s development path, noting: “Two years ago, he didn’t play any games. Last year, he played some games. The target is to give him more games this season. I don’t know [when he will be back].”
Reflecting on Palmer’s absence, Maresca added: “When Cole is not in the game, we need to find different solutions. Hopefully, tomorrow we can do the same.”
Chelsea currently sit fourth in the Premier League table, following a dominant 5-1 victory over West Ham and a goalless draw with Crystal Palace.
