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Fernandez was linked with City earlier this month, though Chelsea's reported deadline for an offer for the midfielder was not met.

The 25 year-old joined Chelsea in January 2023, scoring 31 goals and providing 29 assists in 170 games, but is again heavily linked with a reunion with former boss Enzo Maresca at City.

Among Chelsea players last season, Fernandez created the most chances and recorded the second-most direct goal involvements, while also winning the third-most duels.

Fernandez came off the bench in Chelsea's Premier League win over Fulham on Tuesday, and he is expected to be involved again against Luton.

"Yes, we expect that he's involved," Alonso said. "He's trained. He's training really well. He's a good professional, and he will be involved."

When asked if he expected Fernandez to stay, Alonso said: "We want to have the best team possible. 

"We know his qualities; he has shown them, and we have to wait. We'll think about tomorrow [Luton] and see how things develop."

Chelsea has progressed from 27 of its last 28 Carabao Cup ties against sides from outside the top-flight, including the last 19 in a row since a penalty shoot-out defeat to Burnley in November 2008.

The Blues have won their last five meetings with Luton in all competitions, since a 2-0 away loss in the old First Division in December 1991.

"Every cup is important," Alonso said."We  want to have the best possible team to face Luton and treat it with the respect it deserves."