Manchester City are ready to meet Chelsea’s demands to sign Argentine midfield star Enzo Fernandez this summer.
According to Football Insider, Manchester City are prepared to meet Chelsea’s £120 million asking price for Enzo Fernandez as they step up their efforts to sign the Argentine midfielder before the summer transfer window closes.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup finalist has emerged as one of Manchester City’s leading targets in the final stages of the window, with the club now ready to accelerate their pursuit. Negotiations between the two Premier League clubs are expected to intensify in the coming days, with growing optimism at the Etihad that a deal can be struck.
Chelsea have remained open to the possibility of Fernandez leaving, but their stance has been clear: they will only sanction a sale if their £120 million valuation is met.
How can Manchester City now afford to sign Fernandez?
Manchester City’s ability to make another significant investment has been helped by two major departures this summer. Rodri has completed his move to Barcelona, while Tijjani Reijnders has also left the Etihad, generating substantial funds.
Rodri’s departure has left a significant void in Manchester City’s midfield. Although the Citizens have already brought in Elliot Anderson, Fernandez’s profile as a deep-lying playmaker with advanced versatility directly addresses the creative void left by Rodri’s exit. The club believe he could provide the technical ability and range required to reshape the position.
Fernandez joined Chelsea from SL Benfica in January 2023 and has since established himself as one of the most important players at Stamford Bridge. The 25-year-old has made 169 appearances for the Blues, contributing towards 61 goals.
His 2025/26 campaign was particularly impressive, with Fernandez registering 22 goal contributions in 54 appearances across competitions. Primarily a deep-lying playmaker, Fernandez has the passing range and intelligence to dictate matches from midfield, but his ability to operate in more advanced roles also makes him a versatile option.
Manchester City believe Fernandez’s profile as a playmaker-plus-versatile midfield operator directly addresses their midfield rebuild under Enzo Maresca, who has been pushing to reunite with the Argentine star.
The West London club have little pressure to sell, with Fernandez contracted until 2032. But the 25-year-old is also reportedly willing to consider a move away from Stamford Bridge, which could further encourage City as negotiations progress.