EPL: Man City target Fernandez in £120m transfer move – Reports

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Manchester City are preparing a fresh move for Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez, with the Premier League champions expected to test Chelsea’s resolve before the transfer window closes.

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As reported by BBC Sport on Wednesday, City have identified the Argentina international as a priority target as manager Enzo Maresca looks to strengthen his midfield following several major departures.

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Chelsea have placed a £120 million valuation on Fernandez, although reports suggest the club’s position on a potential sale remains dependent on securing a suitable replacement.

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The 25-year-old has reportedly attracted strong interest from City despite an earlier deadline set by Chelsea for interested clubs to make an offer. City did not submit a bid by that deadline but have continued to pursue the midfielder.

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Fernandez could become one of the most expensive players in Premier League history if City meet Chelsea’s valuation.

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The Argentine joined Chelsea from Benfica in January 2023 for a British-record fee of £106.8 million.

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His potential move to the Etihad would also reunite him with Maresca, who previously worked with Fernandez at Chelsea and is understood to be keen on adding him to City’s midfield.

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City’s interest has intensified following significant changes to their midfield.

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The club have lost several established players, including Rodri and Tijjani Reijnders, while Nico Gonzalez is also set to leave for Newcastle. City have moved to reinforce the position by signing Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest for a reported £116 million and are pursuing Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi.

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Fernandez is believed to be open to the possibility of moving to Manchester, with reports indicating that personal terms are not expected to be a major obstacle.

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However, Chelsea’s ability to find a replacement could prove decisive in determining whether the transfer happens before the window closes.

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Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has previously refused to guarantee that Fernandez will remain at Stamford Bridge, saying the midfielder is currently a Chelsea player while leaving the door open to developments in the transfer market.

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With the transfer deadline approaching, City’s expected offer could determine whether Fernandez begins a new chapter at the Etihad or remains at Chelsea for the new season.

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