Manchester City are reported to have identified Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandes as one of their top targets in the summer transfer window, with Spanish outlet Fichajes claiming that the Argentine has risen to the top of City’s shortlist.
City are entering a new era following the departure of manager Josep Guardiola, with reports that Enzo Maresca is set to take over as manager at the Etihad, making this story particularly noteworthy.
This naturally adds fuel to the Fernandes rumors, as Maresca worked with Fernandes at Chelsea and is said to have a strong relationship with the midfielder.
Other reports suggest that early behind-the-scenes negotiations are already taking place over a potential transfer.
On paper, it’s easy to see why Manchester City would prefer Enzo. He is 25 years old, a World Cup winner, has a proven track record in the Premier League and has enough technical ability to play in a possession-oriented team.
Man City plan to invest in midfield
Man City are expected to rebuild their midfield, especially with Bernardo Silva’s future uncertain and Rodri linked with Real Madrid.
The Sun even reports that Fernandes could be a potential long-term midfield addition under Maresca.
However, this would be a very difficult situation for Chelsea. Enzo was signed by Benfica in January 2023 for a huge transfer fee, and his contract runs until 2032.
That means Chelsea are under no pressure to sell cheap. Indeed, looking at the reports regarding his future, it is clear that the club do not want to sell him at a loss, especially after a disappointing season at Stamford Bridge.
The problem is that Chelsea’s poor campaign has left them in a weak position emotionally, if not contractually.
Enzo Fernandes wants Champions League football
Enzo wants Champions League football and Chelsea’s failure to qualify has made it difficult to convince top players that the project is moving quickly enough.
Journalist Ben Jacobs reports that Fernandes would welcome a bid from Real Madrid, although informal talks are also taking place with Man City.
Selling a key midfielder to a direct rival in the Premier League would send a terrible message, unless it was an absolutely prohibitive sum.
Enzo wasn’t always perfect at Chelsea, but he remains one of Chelsea’s most talented players.
He would be a smart signing for City. For Chelsea, losing him to City will feel like another sign that their project is changing direction.
Despite Josep Guardiola’s departure, Man City still lead Man United in the race for a midfielder.
