Chelsea have set a final deadline for Manchester City in their pursuit of Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez, insisting that City must pay £120 million by 11:00 PM UK time on Friday. According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea are unwilling to lower their asking price, meaning City must meet the valuation if they want to complete the signing.
Manchester City have been in negotiations for several days as they attempt to reach an agreement for Fernandez. His previous relationship with coach Enzo Maresca has reportedly been one of the factors behind City's interest in bringing the midfielder to the Etihad.
However, Chelsea have made it clear that they have no intention of changing their position after already communicating their plans for the player to his camp since May this year.
If Manchester City fail to reach an agreement before the deadline, Fernandez will remain at Stamford Bridge for the 2026/27 season. City would then have to consider alternative options in midfield, particularly amid reports that Rodri could leave for Barcelona.
Fernandez joined Chelsea from Benfica in 2023 for £106.8 million, which was a British transfer record at the time. The midfielder remains under contract with Chelsea until 2031, putting the London club in a strong position to protect his value in any potential transfer negotiations.
