City’s interest in Enzo Fernandez remains active as Chelsea’s 5pm deadline approaches.
Fabrizio Romano reports that there have been regular contacts between City representatives and Fernandez’s camp for several days, including further discussions over the past 24 hours.
Chelsea, however, remain adamant that they will not sell the Argentina international after 5pm today.
The Blues are also maintaining their £120m valuation, meaning City face a major decision if they want to push ahead with a move for the midfielder.
Sky Sports reported earlier on Friday that Chelsea have told City they must submit a bid by 5pm if they want to sign Fernandez this summer.
The situation is particularly interesting given the wider changes taking place in City’s midfield.
Tijjani Reijnders is now set to leave for Al-Qadsiah in a deal worth around £52m, while Barcelona continue to pursue Rodri. City have rejected a second offer for their Ballon d’Or-winning midfielder and are reportedly holding out for a substantially higher fee.
Fernandez has emerged as a potential replacement should Rodri depart, although City would have to commit to a huge fee to prise him away from Chelsea.
There have been conflicting reports over whether City have actually submitted a formal offer, but Romano’s latest update confirms that contact with the player’s camp remains ongoing.
For now, the clock is ticking.
Chelsea’s position is clear: £120m by 5pm, or Fernandez stays at Stamford Bridge.
City must now decide whether to meet those demands.
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