Garnacho Arrives at Chelsea as £40m Move from Man Utd Nears Completion
Chelsea have confirmed that Argentine midfielder Alejandro Garnacho has arrived at their training ground ahead of a reported £40 million ($54 million) move from Manchester United. The 21-year-old winger is set to undergo a medical and finalise personal terms, according to Blues manager Enzo Maresca.
The transfer deal between the two Premier League clubs was reportedly agreed on Thursday, with Garnacho deemed surplus to requirements by Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim. Chelsea are now moving quickly to complete the signing before the summer transfer window closes.
Garnacho was spotted at Chelsea’s Cobham training ground on Friday, where he is expected to complete his medical and formalities. “I know he is around here,” Maresca told reporters when asked about the player’s arrival. “I don’t know exactly where.”
When asked how Garnacho would fit into Chelsea’s lineup, Maresca confirmed that the young Argentine would feature as a winger. “He’s a winger. I see him as a winger,” the Italian added. He also did not rule out further transfers, saying: “You can expect anything, the transfer window is open, anything can happen in and out.”
Chelsea will also be without Cole Palmer for Saturday’s game against West London rivals Fulham due to a groin injury that previously ruled him out against West Ham. Benoit Badiashile and Romeo Lavia remain sidelined with their own fitness concerns. Maresca provided updates on their recoveries, noting that Palmer’s status would be assessed day by day, while Badiashile and Lavia are expected to return gradually after the international break.
Maresca reflected on Lavia’s development, noting that he played no games two seasons ago, some last season, and will now be given more opportunities this campaign. “When Cole is not in the game, we need to find different solutions. Hopefully, tomorrow we can do the same,” he said.
Chelsea currently sit fourth in the Premier League table after a goalless draw with Crystal Palace and a 5-1 victory over West Ham, and the arrival of Garnacho is expected to add depth and attacking options to the squad.
