By Stephen Simon
Chelsea have reportedly set a £120 million deadline for clubs interested in signing midfielder Enzo Fernandez, with Manchester City emerging as the leading potential suitor.
According to reports from football.london, Chelsea have given interested clubs until 5pm on Friday to meet their £120 million valuation of the Argentina international.
New Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso is said to be keen to have Fernandez’s future resolved before the club’s Premier League season opener against Fulham.
Manchester City’s interest in the 25-year-old has grown in recent days, with former Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca reportedly keen on reuniting with the midfielder. Fernandez could potentially be viewed as a replacement for Rodri, who has been linked with a move to Barcelona.
Fernandez reportedly informed Chelsea of his desire to leave Stamford Bridge in May. Real Madrid were initially considered favourites for his signature, but the Spanish giants later confirmed that they would not pursue the midfielder during the current transfer window.
Should City or any other interested club fail to meet Chelsea’s asking price before the deadline, Fernandez is expected to remain part of Alonso’s squad for the start of the new season.
Chelsea will travel across London to face Fulham at Craven Cottage on Monday, August 24, with kick-off scheduled for 8pm.
Alonso recently confirmed that he had discussed Fernandez’s future with the player but declined to reveal details of their conversation.
“Yes, we have spoken, but as you can understand, what we discussed remains confidential,” the Chelsea manager said.
Fernandez enjoyed some of his strongest performances at Chelsea under Maresca. During the Italian coach’s tenure, the midfielder made 54 Premier League appearances, scoring 11 goals and providing eight assists.
Fernandez was also openly surprised by Maresca’s departure from Chelsea last season. Speaking to Mexican outlet TUDN in March, he said he did not understand the decision.
With Chelsea demanding a substantial fee and the deadline approaching, Fernandez’s future could be decided within days, with Manchester City facing a race against time if they are to secure the midfielder’s signature.
