Arsenal star now Chelsea's 'first' Lamine Camara alternative as Enzo Fernandez nears Man City move

Chelsea are already planning for life after Enzo Fernandez as Manchester City continue working on a deadline-day move for the Argentina international.

Arsenal midfielder Martin Zubimendi has now emerged as one of the Blues' preferred replacements.

However, Chelsea have yet to make an approach for the £60 million Spain international.

Chelsea could attempt late Martin Zubimendi move

Chelsea are considering Zubimendi as they prepare for the possibility of Fernandez joining Manchester City, according to talkSPORT.

Ben Jacobs claims Zubimendi is the 'first' of two Premier League-based alternatives being considered by the Blues, alongside Tottenham midfielder Lucas Bergvall.

“Chelsea, as it stands, have not made a bid for these players, but they're on the list, as they seek a replacement that will unlock Enzo Fernandez to Manchester City,” Jacobs said.

Chelsea have already made a £38.5 million offer for AS Monaco midfielder Lamine Camara, but that is expected to fall well short of the Ligue 1 club's £51 million valuation.

AS Roma's Manu Kone is also on their radar, although his manager Gian Piero Gasperini has suggested the midfielder will remain in Italy.

Zubimendi therefore offers another potential route, but completing such a deal before the deadline would be extremely difficult.

What is the latest on Enzo Fernandez to Man City?

Chelsea had previously given City a deadline of August 14th to meet their £120 million asking price, but no offer arrived before the cut-off.

Despite that, latest reports suggest that negotiations have continued and are now in the 'final stages' ahead of a late move to the Etihad.

Fernandez has been left out of Chelsea's recent matchday squads and is understood to have already agreed personal terms with City, while former coach Enzo Maresca is keen to reunite with him.

That means Zubimendi could become particularly important if the move finally happens.

Arsenal have little reason to sell after pursuing Zubimendi for years and signing him only last summer, while his importance to their squad has increased despite Bruno Guimaraes also arriving.

Chelsea's interest is understandable, but unless Arsenal dramatically change their stance, Zubimendi looks like one of the less realistic options available to them at this stage.