Chelsea have stepped up their contingency planning by identifying a primary replacement should vice-captain Enzo Fernandez complete a high-profile move to Manchester City. With the Etihad outfit desperate to bolster their midfield following Rodri's agreement with Barcelona, the Blues are prepared to raid a top-flight rival to fill the potential void at Stamford Bridge.
Manchester City are refusing to cool their interest in Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez despite missing the deadline to make a bid, with the Blues having set a £120m asking price for the Argentina international. Chelsea had given City until 5pm last Friday to make an offer, but no bid was submitted as Enzo Maresca’s side continue to explore midfield reinforcements before the transfer window closes.
Enzo Fernandez was greeted by a chorus of boos from a significant portion of the Stamford Bridge faithful during Chelsea's final pre-season clash on Saturday. Despite the frosty reception for the Argentine, Xabi Alonso's side managed to secure a 3-1 victory over Real Sociedad to wrap up their summer schedule.
Xabi Alonso secured his first victory at Stamford Bridge as Chelsea manager, concluding their pre-season preparations with a hard-fought 3-1 win over Real Sociedad. While the performance offered plenty of tactical intrigue, the afternoon was somewhat overshadowed by a polarized reaction from the home crowd toward Enzo Fernandez.
As transfer expert Gianluca Di Marzio reports among others, Manchester City are submitting a €120 million offer for Enzo Fernandez today. Chelsea, however, are demanding €140 million.
