Chelsea Set £120m Price Tag and Friday Deadline for Enzo Fernandez Departure

Chelsea have set a strict deadline of 5:00 PM BST on Friday for interested clubs to submit offers of at least £120 million for midfielder Enzo Fernandez, aiming to resolve the player’s uncertain future at Stamford Bridge before the new season commences.

The 25-year-old Argentina international has faced questions regarding his commitment to the London club since March, following speculation linked to potential transfers and public discontent expressed by his agent over his contract terms.

Despite earlier links to Real Madrid, the Spanish giants have reportedly backed away from a potential move, leaving Manchester City as the primary interested party. However, City have yet to indicate whether they are willing to match Chelsea’s valuation, as they continue to explore alternative midfield options, including Lille’s Ayoub Bouaddi.

Chelsea paid £107 million to sign Fernandez from Benfica in 2023 and remain firm on their increased £120 million valuation. Club management views the Friday deadline as a necessary measure to end months of transfer speculation after granting the player’s camp ample time to present viable offers.

New Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso held discussions with Fernandez following his return to pre-season training this week. While the contents of their talks remain private, Chelsea officials have indicated that if no suitable offer is received by the deadline, Fernandez will be fully reintegrated into the squad as a key player for the upcoming campaign.

Fernandez recorded 15 goals and seven assists in 54 appearances last season for Chelsea, before featuring in Argentina’s run to the World Cup final.