Key facts
- Manchester City have opened direct club-to-club talks with Chelsea to sign midfielder Enzo Fernandez.
- Enzo Fernandez has made it clear he wants to move to Manchester City.
- Chelsea have set a Friday deadline for Manchester City to make an offer.
- Chelsea's valuation for Fernandez is £120 million.
- Fernandez previously had a strong relationship with City manager Enzo Maresca when Maresca was at Chelsea.
Manchester City have initiated direct club-to-club discussions with Chelsea regarding the potential transfer of midfielder Enzo Fernandez. The Argentina international has reportedly communicated his desire to join City.
Chelsea has established a deadline of 5 p.m. this coming Friday for Manchester City to submit an offer, with the club stating that their valuation of the player is £120 million. If this valuation is not met by the deadline, Fernandez will not be permitted to leave.
Fernandez previously worked with City's manager, Enzo Maresca, during their time at Chelsea, and this relationship is understood to remain positive. Despite the ongoing transfer speculation, Fernandez is available for Chelsea's upcoming match against Luton Town in the Carabao Cup.
Chelsea's decision to set a deadline is aimed at preventing the transfer saga from becoming a significant distraction as the new season approaches. The club has been clear about their valuation since May and is prepared to integrate Fernandez into their plans under new manager Xabi Alonso if a suitable offer does not materialize.