- Manchester City see Enzo Fernández as a potential Rodri replacement, but Chelsea's reported £120m valuation could block a summer move.
Manchester City make contact over Enzo Fernández
Manchester City have expressed their interest in signing Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernández in the summer, according to Fabrizio Romano. The Manchester club is in touch with the Argentine's agents to show their willingness to bring him to the Etihad Stadium as a part of Enzo Maresca's long-term project at the club.
Why City sees Fernández as a potential Rodri replacement
With Rodri’s future uncertain amid interest from Barcelona, Manchester City are already considering potential replacements. Ayyoub Bouaddi is nearing a move to the club, while Enzo Fernández has also emerged as a target. The Chelsea midfielder’s experience, composure, and ability to dictate the game from deep could make him an ideal option to help fill the void left by Rodri.
Maresca has already worked with Enzo Fernández during his 18-month tenure at Chelsea, where Enzo was a key part of the club's World Cup-winning team led by the Italian manager. City could also benefit from Enzo Maresca's previous working relationship with Fernández at Chelsea, but the major blockade is the financial demands of Chelsea.
Chelsea's £120m valuation creates a major obstacle
The biggest obstacle is Chelsea's valuation. The Blues have no intention of actively selling Fernández, and any approach would reportedly require a fee of at least £120m to convince them to consider a deal.
Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has no intention of excluding him from the project considering the player's quality, experience, and recent performances with Argentina in the FIFA World Cup.
Last season Chelsea finished 10th in the Premier League season, but Enzo Fernández was one of the standout performers in the squad when the team went through 3 different managers in the campaign.
Player has a long contract with Chelsea
He joined Chelsea on February 1, 2023, for a British record transfer fee following his impressive performances in Argentina's World Cup-winning campaign in the 2022 FIFA World Cup. He signed a long contract upon arrival that will tie him to Chelsea F.C. through June 30, 2032.
Earlier this year the player hinted at his interest in playing for Real Madrid in the future, which caused controversy within the team; however, Real Madrid ruled out the possibility of signing the midfielder with their official statement.