By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Chelsea have set 17:00 BST on Friday as the deadline for clubs to submit offers for Enzo Fernandez, with the midfielder’s future at Stamford Bridge now facing a crucial decision. The Blues want to end the 25-year-old’s uncertainty before the new season starts. They will consider offers worth at least £120m and expect interested clubs to meet their valuation.
Chelsea Set £120m Asking Price for Fernandez
Chelsea believe they have given Fernandez and interested clubs enough time to complete a transfer.
The club has set a firm deadline for offers on Friday. However, Chelsea also expect to stand firm on their £120m valuation.
The Blues paid £107m to sign Fernandez from Benfica in 2023. They now want a significant return if the midfielder leaves this summer.
Chelsea remain willing to keep Fernandez if no suitable offer arrives.
Xabi Alonso Discusses Fernandez’s Future
New Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has already spoken with Fernandez about his future.
However, Alonso has refused to disclose details of their conversation.
Chelsea have also made their position clear to the Argentina international.
The club will fully reintegrate Fernandez if he remains at Stamford Bridge. Furthermore, Chelsea still consider him an important part of their squad.
Fernandez returned to Chelsea training this week for the first time under Alonso.
Fernandez’s Chelsea Future Remains Uncertain
Fernandez has faced uncertainty over his future since March.
The midfielder previously raised the possibility of joining Real Madrid. His agent, Javier Pastore, later claimed Fernandez was underpaid.
Pastore also suggested that the midfielder wanted to leave after a difficult season.
Chelsea finished 10th in the Premier League last season. They also ended the campaign without a trophy.
Manchester City defeated Chelsea in the FA Cup final. As a result, the club entered the summer seeking major improvements.
Real Madrid Rule Out Fernandez Move
Real Madrid have reportedly indicated they do not intend to sign Fernandez.
That development leaves Manchester City as the only known potential suitor.
However, City have yet to indicate whether they will meet Chelsea’s £120m valuation.
The Premier League champions are also targeting Lille midfielder Ayoub Bouaddi.
Therefore, City must decide whether Fernandez fits their plans before Friday’s deadline.
Fernandez Produced Strong Numbers Last Season
Despite Chelsea’s difficult campaign, Fernandez delivered impressive individual numbers.
He scored 15 goals and provided seven assists in 54 appearances last season.
The midfielder also helped Argentina reach the World Cup final.
Argentina eventually lost 1-0 to Spain in the final. Fernandez received a red card during the match.
His performances have kept his transfer value high despite Chelsea’s disappointing campaign.
Chelsea Await Manchester City Decision
Chelsea now face a crucial decision over Fernandez’s future.
The club wants clarity before the new season begins. Therefore, Friday’s deadline could determine whether Fernandez stays or leaves.
Manchester City remain the only known club with serious interest.
However, their willingness to meet Chelsea’s £120m demand remains unclear.
Unless City or another club submits a suitable offer, Chelsea will welcome Fernandez back into Alonso’s squad.
