Chelsea have set a deadline of 5pm this Friday for Manchester City to submit an offer for midfielder Enzo Fernandez. The London club values Fernandez at £120m and has communicated that if this valuation is not met by the deadline, they do not intend to sell him during the current transfer window, which closes on Tuesday, September 1.
City has shown interest in Fernandez, who previously had a strong working relationship with Enzo Maresca during his time as Chelsea boss. Maresca is now managing Manchester City, having joined the club this summer after City paid Chelsea £17m in compensation for his appointment.
Deadline Imposed Amidst Transfer Speculation
Chelsea’s decision to impose a strict deadline is aimed at preventing prolonged distractions as the new season approaches. The club wants new manager Xabi Alonso and his squad to focus on their upcoming campaign without ongoing transfer speculation. Chelsea believes that interested clubs have had ample time, approximately two months, to make an approach for Fernandez.
The club signed Fernandez for around £107m from Benfica in the 2023 winter transfer window, and he currently has six years remaining on his contract. Chelsea’s valuation of £120m is considered justified, especially given recent transfer fees for other midfielders, such as City’s acquisition of Elliot Anderson for £116m.
The possibility of City making a late move for Fernandez has increased due to Barcelona’s pursuit of City midfielder Rodri. Barcelona had an initial bid of £40m for Rodri rejected but is reportedly preparing to increase their offer to between £50m and £60m. Rodri has entered the final year of his contract with City.
City’s Interest and Chelsea’s Stance
Manchester City has identified Fernandez as a top target and is keen to support Maresca in the transfer market this summer. While the £120m price tag is seen as steep, City is reportedly determined to sign the player. They are also in ongoing discussions with Lille for midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi as they consider options for potential player departures.
Chelsea is prepared for Fernandez to remain at the club if their valuation is not met. Manager Xabi Alonso has spoken with Fernandez and is content to include him in his plans for the upcoming season. The club is also ready to reintegrate Fernandez after previous incidents, including a two-game ban in April following comments he made about potentially wanting to live in Madrid. Both Fernandez and his agent later apologised for these remarks, which had also involved seeking improved terms at Chelsea.
While other Champions League clubs have shown interest in Fernandez, few are reportedly in a position to afford such a high transfer fee. Real Madrid previously issued a statement denying any intention to sign Fernandez this summer.
If Fernandez stays, Chelsea believes he can thrive under Alonso’s guidance. The club views his continued presence as beneficial, noting his goal-scoring contributions from a deeper midfield position last season. Chelsea also has other midfield options available, with Alonso able to call upon six others to play in midfield.
Manchester City’s need for Fernandez is a subject of discussion, with some suggesting he offers different qualities than a direct replacement for Rodri. His intensity and ability in crucial moments are highlighted as valuable assets. City is also aware of interest from Nottingham Forest in Tijjani Reijnders.
The summer transfer window is scheduled to close on Tuesday, September 1.
Source: skysports.com