Could Enzo Fernandez leave Chelsea for Manchester City in blockbuster £120m move?

Chelsea have set a Friday deadline for any club interested in signing Enzo Fernandez, with the Blues demanding at least £120 million for the midfielder.

The Argentina international’s future has been uncertain since March, when he first raised the possibility of leaving Stamford Bridge amid reported interest from Real Madrid.

Fernandez’s agent, Javier Pastore, later claimed his client was underpaid and wanted to leave following a difficult season for Chelsea, who finished 10th in the Premier League and ended the campaign without a trophy after losing the FA Cup final to Manchester City.

Real Madrid have since stated they have “no intention” of signing Fernandez, leaving Manchester City as the only known potential suitors for the 25-year-old.

City are considering their midfield options under new manager Enzo Maresca, who left Chelsea midway through last season. However, it remains unclear whether the club would be prepared to meet Chelsea’s £120m valuation, particularly with Lille midfielder Ayoub Bouaddi also on their radar.

The Blues are expected to stand firm on their £120m asking price, despite signing the midfielder from Benfica for £107m in January 2023.

The deadline has been set to bring an end to the uncertainty surrounding Fernandez before the new season begins, with the player and potential suitors having around 60 days to complete a move at what Chelsea consider a fair price.

Chelsea have also made it clear that Fernandez can remain at Stamford Bridge if no suitable offer arrives.

New head coach Xabi Alonso has spoken to the midfielder about his future but has declined to reveal details of their conversation.

It is understood Chelsea are willing to fully reintegrate Fernandez into the squad and continue to rely on him as a key player.

How did Enzo Fernandez perform last season?

Fernandez was one of Chelsea’s most productive players last season despite the club’s disappointing campaign.

He scored 15 goals and provided seven assists in 54 appearances across all competitions.

The midfielder then helped Argentina reach the World Cup final, although they lost 1-0 to Spain, with Fernandez receiving a red card during the match.

Fernandez returned to Chelsea training this week and has now worked with Alonso for the first time.

Could Manchester City sign Fernandez?

Manchester City remain the only known club currently linked with a potential move for Fernandez following Real Madrid’s decision not to pursue the midfielder.

However, City would need to decide whether Fernandez represents value at Chelsea’s £120m asking price.

With Friday’s deadline approaching, the situation could soon become clearer. If City meet Chelsea’s valuation, Fernandez could leave Stamford Bridge, but the Blues are equally prepared to keep him as a central part of Alonso’s plans.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Enzo Fernandez leaving Chelsea?

Fernandez’s future remains undecided. Chelsea have set a 17:00 BST Friday deadline for offers of at least £120m, but they are prepared to keep the midfielder if that valuation is not met.

Are Manchester City interested in Enzo Fernandez?

Manchester City are currently the only known potential suitors for Fernandez. However, it is unclear whether they are willing to meet Chelsea’s £120m asking price.

How much would Enzo Fernandez cost?

Chelsea are demanding £120m for Fernandez. The club paid £107m to sign him from Benfica in January 2023.

Will Enzo Fernandez stay at Chelsea?

Chelsea are prepared for Fernandez to remain at the club and continue as a key player under Xabi Alonso. He has already returned to training with the first team.

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