Chelsea have increased their valuation of Enzo Fernandez as Manchester City pursue the midfielder before the transfer deadline, with the club captain potentially leaving Stamford Bridge.
According to the Telegraph, Chelsea's asking price for the Argentina international has risen from the £120 million quoted earlier this summer, as time runs out to secure a replacement. The Blues are preparing for the possibility of Fernandez's departure, with manager Xabi Alonso ready to dip into the transfer market if the exit materialises.
City's midfield crisis deepens after Community Shield defeat
The urgency for City to sign Fernandez was highlighted by their 3-0 Community Shield loss to Arsenal at the Millennium Stadium on Sunday, followed by confirmation that Rodri is set to join Barcelona. New City boss Enzo Maresca, who has already spent £116 million on Elliot Anderson this summer, is close to agreeing a deal with Lille for Ayyoub Bouaddi and wants Fernandez to further bolster his midfield options.
Fernandez's valuation has not been affected by the frosty reception he received at Stamford Bridge over the weekend, when a section of the crowd booed him due to speculation about his future and his behaviour during Argentina's World Cup semi-final win over England.
Chelsea's fallback options and fan reaction
If City abandon their pursuit, Chelsea remain confident that Fernandez can be reintegrated into the squad. However, an exit would trigger a move for a replacement, with the Blues having had an offer rejected for Alex Scott last month. Bournemouth insist the England international is not for sale, but Arsenal and Manchester United, who have also monitored Scott, have secured alternative midfield targets, potentially leaving Chelsea unchallenged.
Alonso, appointed manager over the summer, did not hold a press conference after the win over Sociedad but expressed his delight with the atmosphere at Stamford Bridge, despite the abuse aimed at Fernandez. He told Chelsea's official website: 'It was emotional to feel my first time in the new home. A great reception from the supporters to the team and to the new staff, myself as well, so delighted.'
'We want to create good connections and have that support. We want to give them good football so they will give us energy, and we connect. To have a good atmosphere here in the stadium will be a massive boost for the team,' Alonso added.
Transfer deadline looms for Fernandez deal
With the transfer deadline approaching, Chelsea's increased valuation could test City's resolve. The FA Cup holders have already committed significant funds this summer, but their need for a midfielder following Rodri's departure may force them to meet Chelsea's demands. The outcome of the Fernandez saga will likely hinge on whether City can agree a fee before the window closes.
