Chelsea HAVE been weighing up several options to replace midfielder Enzo Fernandez following his move to Manchester City.
The Blues had been eyeing potential replacements including Manu Kone and Lamine Kamara, but both deals fell through before the transfer window closed.
Subsequently, the Londoners turned their attention to the free agent market, identifying former Bayern and PSG midfielder Renato Sanches as a viable option.
According to Foot Mercato, the 29-year-old Portuguese international was considered an attractive choice due to his top-level experience and availability after leaving PSG.
However, Chelsea's hierarchy ultimately decided against pursuing a transfer for Sanches, opting instead to trust the midfield options already at their disposal.
This decision aligns with the philosophy of new head coach Xabi Alonso, who has previously emphasised that Chelsea HAVE enough quality and internal competition to perform well this season.