Chelsea have reportedly made progress in their move to sign Argentine international midfielder Enzo Fernandez from Benfica.
According to a report from The Athletic, Chelsea have advanced their talks over a move for Enzo Fernandez. The west Londoners are ready to fork out €120 million to secure the services of the Benfica midfielder.
The Blues tried to sign the Argentine World Cup winner at the start of the month. But the deal collapsed after they refused to pay the €120 million asking price. However, with the help of super agent Jorge Mendes in recent days, discussions between Chelsea and Benfica have moved forward.
The 22-year-old central midfielder has a release clause of €120 million, and Chelsea were not willing to pay that price earlier on in the window. However, it seems that the club hierarchy are now considering going the distance so that they can sign the player this month.
Chelsea believe that there will be added competition for Fernandez at the end of the season, and they do not want to engage in a bidding war. It will be interesting to see if the two clubs can work out a deal before the January transfer window closes.
Enzo Fernandez was one of the best young players in the recently-concluded World Cup, and he has the potential to develop into a world-class midfielder. Chelsea need someone like him in their ranks, especially, with important first-team players like Jorginho and N’Golo Kante nearing the end of their contracts at Stamford Bridge.
Fernandez could partner Mateo Kovacic at the heart of Chelsea’s midfield next season, and he has the ability to make an immediate impact at the London club. Chelsea manager Graham Potter has done well to nurture talented young players throughout his managerial career, and he could help the Argentine international fulfill his world-class potential as well.
Although the €120 million fee seems quite steep right now, Fernandez has the ability to justify the investment in the long run. Chelsea have been very active during the January transfer window, and they have brought in multiple players to improve their attack and defense. It remains to be seen whether they can sign a quality midfielder now.
Chelsea have scheduled new round of talks for Enzo Fernández on Monday. Full focus on getting it done, player side won’t be an issue. 🚨🔵 #CFC
Todd Boehly, Behdad Eghbali and the board are on it — Chelsea will reach €120m, depends on Rui Costa.
🎥 https://t.co/TfUCoBYcil pic.twitter.com/pcpUjOHYqk
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 30, 2023
The Blues will be fighting for a place in the UEFA Champions League next season, and they will be expected to put up a strong fight for a top-four finish during the second half of the campaign. And after reigniting the bid for the Argentine international, a late deal might be on the cards.
Meanwhile, Fernandez has been a key player for Benfica this season, scoring four goals and picking up seven assists across all competitions. His departure midway through the season will certainly come as a blow for the Portuguese outfit.
