Manchester City have reportedly submitted a €120million bid for Enzo Fernandez as they attempt to sign the Chelsea midfielder before Friday’s 5pm deadline.
César Luis Merlo reports that City have now made an offer for the Argentina international, with former Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca determined to bring Fernandez to the Etihad Stadium.
It represents the most significant development yet in a transfer saga which has accelerated dramatically over the past 48 hours.
ReadChelsea reported on Wednesday night that Chelsea had set a 5pm UK deadline on Friday for Manchester City or any other interested club to submit a £120m net offer.
Man City make Enzo Fernandez transfer bid
Merlo’s latest report claims City have now acted by offering €120m for Fernandez.
The figure is significant, but it does not appear to meet Chelsea’s reported £120m valuation. The structure of City’s proposal and Chelsea’s response have not yet been reported.
That leaves the two Premier League clubs with a potentially decisive period of negotiations ahead.
City’s interest in Fernandez has grown while Rodri’s future remains uncertain. The Guardian reported on Thursday that City view the Chelsea midfielder as a potential replacement for Rodri, who is wanted by Barcelona.
Maresca’s interest is not new either. Merlo had previously reported that the Manchester City manager had specifically asked his club to pursue Fernandez, with contact already taking place.
Chelsea remain in a strong negotiating position.
Fernandez is under a long-term contract and Xabi Alonso has publicly made clear that he wants the midfielder to remain at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea have also indicated that if their valuation is not met before Friday’s deadline, Fernandez is expected to stay.
The focus now turns to whether Chelsea reject City’s reported opening proposal, whether City improve their offer or whether the two clubs can find a structure which satisfies the Blues before 5pm on Friday.
