Manchester City Secures Enzo Fernandez in Record-Breaking Transfer Deal
Manchester City Completes Major Signing
Manchester City has finalized a stunning £125 million ($169 million) agreement with Chelsea for Argentine midfielder Enzo Fernandez, marking a transfer that ties the Premier League's record fee, as reported by sources from a leading sports outlet.
Fernandez has received the green light to undergo a medical examination following the agreement between the two clubs, which matches the fee Liverpool paid Newcastle United for Alexander Isak last summer.
The 25-year-old midfielder had been eager to leave Stamford Bridge, despite Chelsea's attempts to keep him. Initially, the London club set a price tag of £120 million and requested interested teams to express their interest by August 14.
Although that deadline passed without a deal, Fernandez remained resolute in his wish to depart Chelsea. Reports indicate that City ramped up negotiations in the last 48 hours, ultimately agreeing to pay £5 million above Chelsea's original asking price.
Chelsea stands to profit from Fernandez's sale, having acquired him from Benfica for £107 million in February 2023.
In recent weeks, Fernandez's rapport with Chelsea fans has soured. He faced boos during the club's last pre-season match against Real Sociedad and again during their Premier League opener against Fulham.
New Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso opted to exclude Fernandez from the squad for the midweek Carabao Cup win over Luton, stating, "It was better [for him] not to be part of the squad," according to reports.
Last season, Fernandez had already raised questions about his future at Chelsea. After their Champions League exit to Paris Saint-Germain, he expressed uncertainty about staying with the club for the next season.
He was subsequently benched for two matches by former Chelsea head coach Liam Rosenior after he voiced his admiration for Madrid amid interest from Real Madrid.
Chelsea is now on the lookout for a replacement, with Roma's Manu Kone and Monaco's Lamine Camara being considered as potential options.
Fernandez's addition would bolster Enzo Maresca's Manchester City squad, as the club continues to enhance its lineup for the upcoming season.
Once finalized, this deal will position Fernandez among the most expensive players in Premier League history, equaling the league's record transfer fee.