Manchester City’s new manager, Enzo Maresca, has identified Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez as a key signing to build his midfield around. The Italian coach, who has already worked with the Argentina international at Stamford Bridge, sees him as the ideal orchestrator for his system.
Maresca’s approach relies heavily on a deep-lying playmaker capable not only of controlling possession and dictating the tempo, but also of breaking opposition lines with incisive, vertical passes.
Their strong relationship could also help pave the way for a reunion, while City’s hierarchy are already weighing up their options as they look to refresh the squad.
City’s determined pursuit of Fernandez is directly linked to Rodri’s future.
Barcelona are in advanced talks over the Spain international, who is entering the final year of his contract, leaving City under pressure to act quickly and secure a suitable replacement. Although City rejected Barcelona’s opening bid as too low, preparations for the possible departure of their midfield linchpin are already under way.
Chelsea value Fernandez at £120m, making it clear that they are under no financial pressure to sell. The Blues are prepared to keep the Argentine as a key player for next season, leaving City with a major decision to make: are they willing to pay such a huge fee?
A deal of this size would further stretch Manchester City’s transfer budget, particularly given that the club have already spent heavily this summer, including £116m on Elliot Anderson.
As the transfer window enters its final stages, negotiations between the two Premier League rivals are proving increasingly difficult. Although City are also considering other targets, including Lille youngster Ayyoub Bouaddi, Fernandez remains firmly at the top of Maresca’s shortlist.
