Manchester City is getting ready to make a new move for Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez. The Premier League champions want to test Chelsea’s resolve before the transfer window closes.
According to BBC Sport on Wednesday, City sees the Argentina international as a key target. Manager Enzo Maresca wants to strengthen his midfield because several key players have left.
Chelsea has set a £120 million price tag on Fernandez. But reports say the club's decision on selling him depends on finding a suitable replacement.
The 25-year-old has caught City’s eye even after Chelsea set a deadline for offers. City did not place a bid by that deadline but continues to chase the midfielder.
If City meets Chelsea's asking price, Fernandez could become one of the most expensive players in Premier League history.
He joined Chelsea from Benfica in January 2023 for a British-record fee of £106.8 million.
If he moves to the Etihad, he will reunite with Maresca, who worked with Fernandez at Chelsea and wants him in City’s midfield.
City's interest has grown stronger after losing some key midfield players. They have already lost Rodri and Tijjani Reijnders, and Nico Gonzalez is also on his way to Newcastle. City has signed Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest for a reported £116 million and is looking at Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi.
Reports suggest that Fernandez is open to moving to Manchester. Personal terms are not expected to be a major issue.
But Chelsea’s ability to find a replacement will be crucial in deciding if the transfer goes through before the window closes.
Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has not guaranteed that Fernandez will stay at Stamford Bridge. He mentioned that the midfielder is a Chelsea player right now, but developments in the transfer market could change that.
As the transfer deadline nears, City’s expected offer will likely decide if Fernandez starts a new chapter at the Etihad or stays at Chelsea for the upcoming season.
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