Chelsea have informed Manchester City that they have until 5pm on Friday, August 14, to submit a formal offer for midfielder Enzo Fernandez, according to multiple reports. The Blues have set a deadline to avoid a prolonged transfer saga, with City expressing interest in the Argentine international.
Fernandez, 25, joined Chelsea from Benfica in January 2023 for a British-record fee of £106.8 million. He has been a key player for the club, but his future has been the subject of speculation following the departure of manager Enzo Maresca, with whom Fernandez shared a strong relationship.
Chelsea are reportedly holding out for a fee in the region of £85 million, though City are said to be reluctant to meet that valuation. The Premier League champions are looking to strengthen their midfield after a quiet summer transfer window.
Fernandez has made 87 appearances for Chelsea in all competitions, scoring 12 goals and providing 10 assists. He was part of the Argentina squad that won the 2022 World Cup and the 2024 Copa América.
Neither club has officially commented on the reports, but the deadline is expected to force City's hand if they are serious about signing the midfielder before the transfer window closes on September 1.
