Manchester City are reportedly weighing up a summer move for Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez, according to The Athletic. The Premier League champions are looking to fill the void left by Bernardo Silva, who is set to depart at the end of the season. Additionally, the long-term future of Spanish midfielder Rodri has come into question after the Ballon d'Or winner indicated in March that he would welcome a return to Spain in the future.
City's interest in Fernandez
Pep Guardiola's side have had a long-standing interest in Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson, who is also wanted by Manchester United. However, City are also interested in a move for Fernandez, who joined Chelsea from Benfica for a then-British-record fee of £105 million in 2023. The 25-year-old Argentine has cast doubts over his long-term future at Stamford Bridge, telling Argentine media in March that he 'did not know' where his future lies beyond this summer's World Cup.
Fernandez's agent confirms contract standoff
Speaking last month, Fernandez's agent, Javier Pastore, confirmed that the midfielder will consider his future at Chelsea if terms on a new contract cannot be agreed after the World Cup. 'We decided to put that [contract talks] out of our minds and focus 100 per cent on the crucial fixtures with Chelsea and also the World Cup with Argentina,' Pastore told The Athletic. 'We don't want to get into discussions about figures, contracts and negotiations when the timing wasn't right. Our plan after the World Cup is to meet with Chelsea again and, if there is no agreement, to explore other options.'
Fernandez's recent performances
Fernandez made his return from a two-game suspension last weekend in a 1-0 defeat to Manchester United, and played again in midweek as Chelsea lost 3-0 to Brighton in what proved to be Liam Rosenior's last game in charge of the Blues. The Argentine has made 32 Premier League appearances this season, scoring eight goals and registering three assists.
Fernandez has also been linked with Real Madrid, and was suspended by former boss Rosenior after comments insinuating he would like to live in the Spanish capital. With City seeking to strengthen their midfield, a move for the £107m-rated star could materialize in the upcoming transfer window.
