Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has dropped a major hint over the club’s pursuit of Enzo Fernandez just hours before Chelsea’s 5pm transfer cut-off.
City have been strongly linked with the Argentina international as uncertainty continues around Rodri’s future, but Chelsea have placed a £120million valuation on Fernandez and want the situation resolved on Friday.
ReadChelsea reported earlier this week that interested clubs had been given until 5pm BST to meet Chelsea’s demands.
Maresca has now offered the clearest indication yet that an agreement may not be imminent.
Enzo Maresca addresses Enzo Fernandez Chelsea deadline
Speaking before Manchester City’s Community Shield meeting with Arsenal, Maresca was directly asked about Chelsea’s deadline and whether City would complete transfer business in the coming hours.
The former Chelsea head coach indicated that City will not make a new signing on Friday, according to Reuters.
That does not definitively end City’s interest in Fernandez.
Maresca also acknowledged that players could still arrive or leave while the transfer window remains open, saying City’s remaining business could depend on departures.
Chelsea’s position, however, creates a much shorter timetable where Fernandez is concerned.
The Blues want their £120m valuation met before Friday evening and are prepared to keep the 25-year-old if an acceptable proposal does not arrive.
ReadChelsea has already examined how Chelsea’s £120m stance has increased the pressure on City.
Rodri remains an important part of the situation. Manchester City have rejected another Barcelona offer for the Spain midfielder, while Fernandez has been identified as a possible replacement should Rodri leave. (The Guardian)
Maresca’s comments therefore leave Chelsea supporters facing an intriguing final few hours.
Unless City’s position changes quickly, Fernandez appears increasingly likely to remain at Stamford Bridge beyond the 5pm cut-off.
