Transfer: Chelsea set £120m Enzo Fernandez deadline as Alonso takes charge

Chelsea have set a deadline for clubs to pay £120 million if they wish to sign Enzo Fernandez before the transfer window closes. 

Manchester City have been notably linked with an interest in the Argentine player.

According to football.london, the Blues have established a deadline of Friday at 5pm for City or any other interested parties to meet the £120 million asking price they have placed on him. 

The report said that manager, Xabi Alonso desires to resolve this matter prior to the season opener against Fulham, which is just over a week away.

City’s interest in Fernandez has intensified in recent days, with former Chelsea manage,r Enzo Maresca eager for a reunion with his former player. Fernandez may be seen as a potential replacement for Rodri, who appears likely to depart Man City for Barcelona.

Fernandez communicated his intention to leave Stamford Bridge this summer back in May. Initially, Real Madrid were the frontrunners for his signature, but the club later issued a public statement indicating that they would not pursue a transfer in the current window.

If the deadline is not met by City or any other club, Fernandez is anticipated to be included in Alonso’s squad for the season opener against Fulham. The Blues will make the short trip to Craven Cottage on Monday, August 24 (8pm kick-off) as they aim to start their season positively.

Regarding Fernandez’s future last month, Alonso said, “Yes, we have spoken, but as you can understand, what we discussed remains confidential.”

The midfielder arguably delivered his finest performances under the guidance of Maresca during the Italian coach’s tenure at Chelsea. In his 54 Premier League appearances under Maresca, Fernandez netted 11 goals and provided eight assists.

Reflecting on Maresca’s departure from Chelsea last season, the 25-year-old did not shy away from expressing his views. He told Mexican outlet TUDN in March: “I don’t understand it either.”