Manchester City are ready to move for Enzo Fernandez in the closing days of the summer window, with the Argentina midfielder now firmly in their sights. City are prepared to meet Chelsea's steep asking price.
"Football Insider" report that Chelsea have slapped a £120 million valuation on the 25-year-old, who has caught the eye at the Etihad.
Fernandez stands out as one of City's priority targets in the final stretch of the market. The club are set to ramp up their efforts to get the deal done in the coming days.
Chelsea won't stand in the way of the Argentine leaving. They simply want what they consider fair value: £120 million.
Speaking on the latest episodes of the "Transfer Insider" podcast, "Football Insider" revealed that the fees City banked from selling players, chiefly Rodri and Tijjani Reijnders, have handed them the war chest they need to chase Fernandez.
Rodri's switch to Barcelona forced City to rethink their midfield plans, turning that area into a priority for Enzo Maresca.
City had already brought in Elliot Anderson earlier in the window, but more changes in midfield are on the cards, especially after several key men moved on.
You can discuss the topics and news in greater depth in the "Kooora" forums
Will Enzo Fernandez move to Manchester City?
"Football Insider" had reported on 21 August that City were planning to accelerate their pursuit of Fernandez, hoping to wrap up the deal before the window slams shut.
Expect intensified negotiations between City and Chelsea in the coming period. There is genuine optimism at the Etihad that an agreement can be struck.
Chelsea had set the £120 million figure to see off rival suitors. That stance shifted once City raised significant funds through player sales.
The report added that Chelsea are willing to cash in at the right price, while Fernandez himself fancies a fresh challenge away from Stamford Bridge.
Adam Wharton among Manchester City's interests
City's interest doesn't stop at Fernandez. The club are weighing up several options to bolster the midfield, particularly in the deep-lying defensive role.
England's Adam Wharton, the Crystal Palace man, is another name on their radar. City have already inquired about a possible move.
Wharton is rated highly at the Etihad after two impressive seasons, and the club's scouts have tracked his progress for some time.
Prising him away won't be simple. Crystal Palace are determined to keep him and won't budge without a huge offer, which could nudge City to throw their weight behind the Fernandez deal instead.
You can discuss the topics and news in greater depth in the "Kooora" forums