Chelsea are beginning to make contingency plans for the possibility of Enzo Fernandez leaving Stamford Bridge, with City still considering whether to pursue the midfielder.
Chelsea want £120m for Fernandez and had set City a Friday deadline to meet their valuation. City, though, are not prepared to do that today, with Enzo Maresca confirming that the club will not meet the deadline.
That does not end the possibility of a move before the transfer window closes.
More interestingly, Chelsea are understood to be looking at potential midfield replacements, with Martin Zubimendi and Alex Scott among the names being considered should Fernandez depart.
It is an indication that Chelsea are at least planning for the possibility, even if there is currently no agreement with City.
Fernandez remains of interest to City as they assess their midfield options. His previous relationship with Maresca is an obvious factor, while City’s situation could change considerably if Rodri leaves for Barcelona.
Barcelona have continued to push for the Spain international, although City have rejected their approaches so far.
For now, City are not meeting Chelsea’s £120m valuation.
But with more than two weeks of the transfer window remaining, neither club can be certain where this ends.
Chelsea’s recruitment planning suggests they are taking the possibility of Fernandez leaving seriously. For City, the question is whether he is worth the price Chelsea have placed on him.
For updates on this and other deals, please take a look at our live transfer tracker.
