Enzo Fernandez is a transfer target for Manchester City this summer, with initial talks already underway, according to Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg. The Argentine midfielder, who arrived at Chelsea for £106.8m in January 2023, is reportedly keen to reunite with City’s incoming manager Enzo Maresca, having previously played under him at Stamford Bridge.
Fernandez has been a standout performer for Chelsea this season, scoring 15 goals and providing seven assists from midfield, leading many to consider him the club’s best player. He publicly questioned Chelsea’s decision to relieve Maresca of his duties, indicating a strong desire to continue working with the Italian coach. This existing relationship is believed to be a key factor in the potential move.
Both Chelsea and Manchester City are preparing for new managerial eras, with Xabi Alonso set to take the helm at Chelsea. Alonso has reportedly identified Fernandez as a key player within his squad, viewing him as one of five leaders within the team alongside Tosin Adarabioyo, Reece James, Marc Cucurella, and Moises Caicedo. However, the lure of working with Maresca appears strong enough to outweigh that.
Chelsea are in a strong negotiating position due to Fernandez being under contract until 2032. Given his age, 25, and current form, the Blues are likely to demand a fee exceeding the amount they originally paid Benfica. A transfer could potentially surpass the Premier League record for an incoming transfer, currently held by Alexander Isak’s move to Newcastle for £125m. The overall Premier League record remains Philippe Coutinho’s £142m transfer to Barcelona in 2018.
Any deal would represent a significant financial transaction for both clubs and could reshape the midfield landscape in the Premier League. The move would allow Maresca to quickly add a proven talent to his City squad, while Chelsea would need to find a suitable replacement for one of their key players.
