Manchester City continue to explore a major move for Enzo Fernandez as Enzo Maresca looks to rebuild his midfield.
City have identified the Argentina international as a leading target. Chelsea remain willing to consider his departure if interested clubs meet their demands.
The situation also connects closely with Rodri‘s future at the Etihad Stadium. Barcelona are pushing to sign the Spain international and continue talks with City over a transfer.
City want to resolve Rodri’s situation before making a serious push for another expensive midfielder. That requirement could now leave them with little time to complete their Chelsea raid.
According to TEAMtalk, Chelsea have given Manchester City and Fernandez until 5pm on Friday to find an agreement.
The Blues want to settle their squad before the new Premier League campaign begins. They have communicated the deadline to Fernandez, his representatives and interested clubs.
Chelsea have previously demanded £120 million for the 25-year-old. City know their asking price, while TEAMtalk claims personal terms should not create a problem.
However, City must first make progress in their negotiations with Barcelona over Rodri. That situation currently complicates their pursuit of Fernandez.
The Argentine has wanted to leave Chelsea since his public disagreement with the club earlier this year. He previously suggested he could join Real Madrid, which led to an internal suspension.
His representatives later put contract talks with Chelsea on hold indefinitely. Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid, Barcelona and Bayern Munich also know about Fernandez’s situation.
However, City currently look like the only realistic club capable of completing a deal. Chelsea will still sanction Fernandez’s departure if City meet their demands before Friday’s deadline.
Otherwise, the Blues intend to end the transfer saga and keep the midfielder at Stamford Bridge under Alonso.
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