Transfer: Chelsea set £120m Enzo Fernandez deadline as Alonso takes charge
Chelsea has established a deadline for potential suitors wishing to sign Enzo Fernandez, stating that any interested clubs must pay £120 million before the transfer window closes.
Manchester City has emerged as a primary contender for the Argentine midfielder. According to reports from football.london, Chelsea has set a cut-off of Friday at 5 p.m. for City or any other interested parties to meet their valuation of Fernandez.
Manager Xabi Alonso is eager to finalize the situation ahead of the season opener against Fulham, which is scheduled for August 24. City’s interest in Fernandez has grown recently, bolstered by Enzo Maresca, a former Chelsea manager, who is keen to work with his former player again. There is speculation that Fernandez could serve as a replacement for Rodri, who is reportedly considering a move to Barcelona.
Fernandez indicated his desire to leave Stamford Bridge this summer in May. Initially, Real Madrid appeared to be the frontrunners for his signing but later announced they would not pursue a transfer in the current window.
If the deadline passes without a satisfactory offer from City or any other club, Fernandez is expected to be included in Alonso’s squad for the match against Fulham at Craven Cottage. Chelsea aims to secure a strong start to their season in the 8 p.m. kickoff.
Alonso addressed the discussions surrounding Fernandez’s future last month, stating, “Yes, we have spoken, but as you can understand, what we discussed remains confidential.”
During his time under Maresca, Fernandez delivered some of his best performances, scoring 11 goals and providing eight assists in 54 Premier League appearances. Reflecting on Maresca’s exit from Chelsea last season, the 25-year-old expressed his confusion in an interview with Mexican outlet TUDN, saying, “I don’t understand it either.”
