Chelsea FC face £120m bid for Enzo Fernandez midfielder

Manchester City are attempting to sign Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez this week as negotiations reportedly intensify. According to reports from Daily Mirror Football, the defending champions are currently finalizing formalities for the move to the Etihad Stadium. The 25-year-old Argentinian international has become a primary target for Pep Guardiola looking to bolster his midfield before the summer window closes.

Chelsea are holding firm on their valuation, requesting €140million or approximately £120million to let the midfielder depart. The club has set a strict transfer deadline of 5pm on Friday, August 14, for any deal to be completed. This creates immense pressure on all parties involved to reach an agreement within the next few days.

What the fee means for the summer budget

The reported £120million price tag represents a significant investment that the Blues hope to recoup. If the deal proceeds, agent Javier Pastore has reportedly reached an agreement with the club for this exit fee provided the August 14 deadline is met. Such funds would provide the club with substantial liquidity to invest in the squad under Xabi Alonso.

The financial situation comes as the club looks to move on from a difficult previous campaign. The league standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 10th in Premier League, 52 pts, 14W-10D-14L from 38 games, recent form LWDLL. With 33 points behind leaders Arsenal, the need for quality remains for the 2026/27 season.

Where he fits in the current squad

Despite the interest, Enzo Fernandez reportedly wants to play under his former manager at Stamford Bridge. However, Xabi Alonso has been clear about the player's current status. The new head coach is preparing for his first English top-flight match against Fulham, managed by Alvaro Arbeloa.

Xabi Alonso recently stated: "Enzo is a Chelsea player. He's a top, top player. He's training really well. We are happy with him and he's getting ready for Monday.\" This suggests that the midfielder remains part of the immediate plans for the West London clash.

Will the transfer happen before Friday?\

Enzo Maresca declined to comment on the transfer speculation when the initial deadline passed. Enzo Maresca said: "In this moment I have to give you the same answer since day one, which will always be the same. He is a player from another club..." This defensive stance reflects the difficulty of selling a key asset for such high value.

Manchester City are also negotiating with Newcastle United for midfielder Nico Gonzalez as a backup option. Meanwhile, Chelsea focuses on their upcoming fixture against Fulham on Monday night. The clock is ticking on the August 14 deadline to determine the future of the Blues star.