Man City open talks with Chelsea for £120m Fernandez deal

Manchester City have opened talks with Chelsea over a potential £120 million move for Argentinian midfielder Enzo Fernandez.

The Premier League champions have made contact with Chelsea as they explore a late deal for the 25-year-old in what could become one of the biggest transfer stories of deadline day.

City push for Fernandez

City’s interest in Fernandez has intensified despite the club missing Chelsea’s August 14 deadline for an offer.

Chelsea had previously agreed with Fernandez’s representatives that the midfielder could leave for £120m before the transfer deadline. However, no bid materialised before the initial deadline.

The Blues are now understood to be demanding a minimum of £120m, with negotiations between the two clubs underway over the final valuation.

A deal at that figure would make Fernandez one of the most expensive signings in Premier League history.

Maresca wants reunion

Fernandez could reunite with Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca, who worked with the midfielder during his time in charge of Chelsea.

Maresca is reportedly keen to work with the Argentina international again, while Fernandez is open to the possibility of moving to the Etihad Stadium.

The midfielder joined Chelsea from Benfica in January 2023 for a British-record fee at the time and has since established himself as a key figure for club and country.

City’s late approach has therefore set up a potentially dramatic conclusion to the summer transfer window, with Chelsea facing a decision over whether to retain one of their most influential midfielders or sanction…