Manchester City are pushing to strengthen their midfield before the transfer window closes on September 1.
Enzo Maresca is restructuring his midfield following the departures of Rodri and Tijjani Reijnders.
As a result, City have identified Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez as a high-priority target during the closing stages.
Chelsea previously set an August 14 deadline for City to meet their £120 million valuation.
However, City allowed that deadline to pass without submitting an offer as they hesitated over Chelsea’s asking price.
The Manchester club have since generated substantial funds through player sales, including the departure of Nico Gonzalez.
Therefore, the possibility of a blockbuster agreement has returned with only days remaining before the transfer deadline.
Fabrizio Romano has now revealed that Manchester City will submit a formal bid for Enzo Fernandez before the window closes.
Romano also reported that Fernandez has opened the door to joining City after negotiations dramatically returned to life.
However, Chelsea will only consider selling if City meet their financial demands and they can improve their squad.
Fernandez is reportedly keen on moving to the Etihad Stadium and reuniting with his former Chelsea manager Maresca.
His representatives have also maintained daily contact with City officials as the Premier League champions pursue an agreement.
Meanwhile, Fernandez recently featured as a second-half substitute during Chelsea’s 3–2 Premier League victory over Fulham.
Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has admitted uncertainty surrounding Fernandez’s future and wants clarity before the transfer window closes.
The Argentine also experienced a turbulent summer after helping his country reach the 2026 World Cup final against Spain.
However, his tournament ended with a red card during the final before he subsequently returned to Chelsea.
Sections of Chelsea’s support greeted Fernandez with boos during pre-season friendlies and their Premier League opener against Fulham.
City are now preparing to test Chelsea’s position with their formal proposal before the September 1 transfer deadline.
🚨💣 Manchester City are set to send formal bid before the end of the window for Enzo Fernández!#MCFC want to try again and Enzo has opened doors to the move.
Chelsea mantain they only sell if money is right and if they can improve their squad. pic.twitter.com/JiMzuy19ho
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 25, 2026
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