Chelsea demand £130m British record to sell Enzo Fernandez to Manchester City

Chelsea are demanding a British record fee of around £130 million to sell Enzo Fernandez to Manchester City before Tuesday’s transfer deadline, with the Argentine’s desire to reunite with Pep Guardiola’s side complicated by the club’s need to bring in midfield cover first.

City are determined to complete the deal and Fernandez himself is keen on the move, having enjoyed considerable success under Enzo Maresca during his time at Chelsea — winning a European trophy, the Club World Cup, and helping the club return to the Champions League. But Chelsea’s asking price has risen above the £120 million originally attached to the player, and any agreement would surpass the current British transfer record.

The deal would also eclipse the £117 million Chelsea paid for Morgan Rogers and the £116 million City spent on Elliot Anderson earlier this window. Arsenal are separately pursuing Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez for over £120 million, but a Fernandez move to City would top even that figure. The World Cup winner joined Chelsea from Benfica for £106 million in January 2023 and attracted interest from Real Madrid last season, though the Spanish club ultimately distanced themselves from a move.

Chelsea’s search for a replacement is the primary obstacle. The club identified Bournemouth’s Alex Scott as their top target, but Bournemouth have made clear he is not for sale. Martin Zubimendi has also been linked, though Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has indicated the Spanish midfielder cannot leave. Real Madrid’s Eduardo Camavinga is another name under consideration.

Elsewhere, Chelsea are close to finalising a deal for goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez and remain in the market for a central defender, underlining the scale of business the club still hopes to complete before the window closes.