Manchester City have begun talks to sign Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez, according to reports. The Argentine international, who joined Chelsea from Benfica for a club-record fee of £106.8 million, has been linked with a move away from Stamford Bridge after a turbulent season.
Fernandez's Future at Chelsea in Doubt
Fernandez first raised questions about his future at Chelsea following the club's exit from the Champions League two months ago. The situation worsened when Chelsea handed him a two-game suspension for comments he made about a potential move to Real Madrid during the last international break. These developments have fueled speculation about his departure.
Manchester City's Interest
According to Sky Germany, Manchester City have placed Fernandez at the top of their summer transfer shortlist. The report claims that 'initial talks have already taken place behind the scenes' between the two clubs. City are looking to strengthen their midfield ahead of the new season, and Fernandez fits the profile of a dynamic, creative midfielder.
Maresca's Influence
The report adds that Enzo Maresca, who is expected to replace Pep Guardiola as Manchester City manager this summer, is particularly keen to sign Fernandez. Maresca and Fernandez previously worked together at Chelsea, where they developed a strong relationship. Speaking in March, Fernandez criticized Chelsea's handling of Maresca's departure, highlighting the impact it had on the squad.
'I don't understand it either,' Fernandez told Mexican broadcaster TUDN. 'Sometimes there are things that we as players don't understand, how and in what way they try to manage things. Obviously, it was a departure that hurt us a lot because we had an identity. He gave us an order, even though, as is the way of football, sometimes it's good and bad. But he always had a very clear identity when it came to training and playing, and obviously his departure hurt us a lot, especially in the middle of the season, it cuts everything short.'
Chelsea's Season and Future Prospects
Chelsea have missed out on qualifying for next season's Champions League ahead of their final Premier League game of the campaign away to Sunderland this Sunday. The highest finish Chelsea can secure is seventh place, which could be enough for a spot in the Europa League if Aston Villa drop to fifth. The club's failure to secure top-tier European football may also influence Fernandez's decision to leave.
Manchester City, meanwhile, are preparing for a new era under Maresca, who is expected to bring a fresh approach. The potential signing of Fernandez would be a statement of intent as they aim to maintain their dominance in English football.
