Chelsea’s €140 m Demand
Chelsea have set a firm asking price of €140 million (£120 m) for midfielder Enzo Fernandez, the former Benfica star who joined the Blues in 2021. The club announced a deadline of 5 pm on Friday, 14 August to secure a transfer before the summer window closes. If no agreement is reached, Fernandez will remain at Chelsea for the upcoming season.
City’s Push to Sign Fernandez
According to Italian outlet Gianluca Di Marzio, Manchester City are reportedly working to complete the signing of Fernandez this week. City’s interest appears to stem from a need to strengthen their midfield after recent departures. The club is also reportedly in early talks with Newcastle United over a potential move for midfielder Nico Gonzalez.
Deadline and Manager’s Stance
Chelsea’s manager Xabi Alonso confirmed that Fernandez is still a Chelsea player. Alonso said, “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.”
Chelsea’s head coach, Frank Maresca, reiterated that the club’s stance remains unchanged. He stated, “In this moment I have to give you the same answer since day one, which will be always the same. He is a player from another club and I don’t think it’s correct to talk about other players. I’m not going to say anything about players who are not with us. Not today, to be honest. I don’t think we’re going to do something today.”
Current Status
The transfer speculation has drawn attention from media outlets across Europe. Chelsea’s official statement emphasised that Fernandez is still a Blues player and will continue training with the squad. The deadline of 5 pm on 14 August remains in place, and the club has not yet confirmed whether a deal will be reached. If no agreement is struck, Fernandez will stay with Chelsea for the 2026-27 season.
Match Context
City came from behind to beat Bournemouth 2-1 in their Premier League opener, while Chelsea will travel to Fulham for their curtain-raiser on Monday night. Alonso’s first top-flight match in England will see him face former Liverpool teammate Alvaro Arbeloa. All eyes will be on the starting 11, with speculation mounting over whether Fernandez will feature in the lineup.
