Tusport - News - Manchester City open talks to sign Enzo Fernández from Chelsea

Manchester City have initiated discussions to sign Enzo Fernández from Chelsea, according to reporter Plettenberg, who states the Argentina international is among City’s priority targets this summer. New head coach Enzo Maresca has made Fernández a strong request, and early behind‑the‑scenes contacts have already taken place. The two “Enzos” are understood to enjoy a close, trusting relationship after working together during the Italian’s time at Chelsea, a stint that left a mark on the midfielder. Fernández publicly voiced frustration at Maresca’s surprise mid‑season departure from Chelsea during Liam Rosenior’s reign, an episode that underlined how highly the World Cup winner regards the coach. Sources suggest the 23‑year‑old would welcome a reunion, even if it requires a high‑profile switch within the Premier League from Chelsea to Manchester City. Maresca arrives at the Etihad as the club’s chosen successor to Pep Guardiola, whose exit was confirmed on Friday. City will commemorate Guardiola with a statue and will rename their newly developed north stand in his honour. During the last decade of Guardiola’s tenure, City lifted 17 major trophies and set new standards for domestic dominance. To protect that legacy in the post‑Guardiola era, City are preparing significant squad refreshes, especially with stalwarts John Stones and Bernardo Silva expected to depart on free transfers. In Fernández, City see an elite, Premier League‑proven midfielder who can dictate tempo, progress play under pressure, and add bite out of possession—qualities aligned with Maresca’s positional play principles. The club’s recent record of smart mid‑season additions—such as Marc Guehi and Antoine Semenyo—has only strengthened confidence in targeted, ready‑made signings. Chelsea, however, hold a powerful negotiating position. Fernández’s contract runs until 2032, meaning any agreement would likely exceed £100 million and require creative structuring to satisfy financial regulations. As reported elsewhere, Chelsea are actively assessing midfield options in case a replacement is needed, and there is growing belief within sections of the market that a sale is possible at the right valuation. The next steps will centre on valuation, payment terms, and timing. Manchester City will weigh squad planning and PSR/FFP considerations, while Chelsea seek to maximise value from a prized asset. With the Premier League landscape set for change after Guardiola, Fernández’s future could become one of the defining stories of the window.