Chelsea set Friday deadline for Man City over Enzo Fernandez

Chelsea has set a firm deadline of 5pm on Friday for Manchester City to make an offer that meets their £120 million valuation for midfielder Enzo Fernandez, or the player will remain at Stamford Bridge. The Athletic reports that Chelsea has informed City and Fernandez's representatives of this deadline, with the club expressing their valuation's clarity to Fernandez's agent since May.

Manchester City has been considering a move for Fernandez as they prepare for Rodri's potential departure to Barcelona. The Argentine player has a strong rapport with City's new head coach Enzo Maresca, who previously worked with him at Chelsea. While Chelsea has not listed Fernandez on their unavailable players for the summer transfer window, their latest stance means City must meet their valuation by Friday if they hope to secure a deal.

Fernandez, who has a contract with Chelsea until 2032, remains an essential member of the squad. He faced disciplinary action in April for criticizing club hierarchy and suggesting he could leave the club during international duty. His representatives have also raised concerns over the slow progress in contract discussions. Chelsea aims to retain Fernandez if their valuation is not met but is keeping an eye on potential midfield replacements, including Bournemouth's Alex Scott.

The Argentine joined Chelsea from Benfica in January 2023 for a British record fee and has since become a crucial midfielder for both club and country. City are now faced with a clear decision: meet Chelsea's £120m valuation by Friday's deadline or see Fernandez stay at west London.