Alejandro Garnacho yet to return for Chelsea pre-season with transfer exit close

Alejandro Garnacho has reportedly not returned to pre-season training alongside his team-mates this week at Chelsea. The 22-year-old was absent from all of the club's photographs shared from their first day back at work under new manager Xabi Alonso at Cobham.

It remains unclear whether Garnacho was due to be involved in Alonso's first session as Blues manager. The winger had featured on Argentina's preliminary 55-man World Cup squad but ultimately missed the final cut. He has not represented his country since November 2024, before his £40million switch to Chelsea from Manchester United last summer.

Chelsea are said to be prioritising a permanent departure for the player. Italian side Roma are keen on the winger, but early discussions have revealed they are only willing to take him on loan initially, an option Chelsea are unwilling to entertain. The player is also reported to be keen on a move to Serie A.

Atletico Madrid, Como and Napoli have all been linked with interest in the Argentine, with teams from the Saudi Pro League also monitoring the situation. Garnacho was born in Madrid and departed Atletico for Manchester United in 2020 after coming through the ranks at Getafe. A return to Spain after six years away could hold considerable appeal.

It is understood that the absence of guaranteed playing time is the decisive factor. The relationship between club and player remains amicable, though Garnacho has been informed that a regular starting berth at Stamford Bridge is not guaranteed. During his underwhelming debut season, the winger netted eight goals and provided four assists in 34 appearances across all competitions, with just one coming in the Premier League.

Those within the club are hopeful that an agreement can be reached within the next fortnight. United retain a 10 per cent sell-on clause.