Enzo Fernandez wants out. The Argentina midfielder has a verbal agreement with Manchester City on personal terms, according to Fabrizio Romano’s reporting, though City have yet to file an official bid with Chelsea.
Chelsea are only willing to move him on two conditions: a fee of £120m, and a like-for-like replacement already through the door.
The replacement is close. Chelsea have agreed a €45m (£39m) package including bonuses with Monaco for Lamine Camara, with the 22-year-old expected in London within days for a medical, subject to a final agreement on payment schedule and bonuses.
Alonso has moved Fernandez aside
Xabi Alonso, appointed Chelsea head coach in May, has left Fernandez out of the squad for two consecutive matches, including the 4-3 win at home to Brighton on Sunday, a public sign that the club had priced in his exit.
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Romano has framed Chelsea’s position as unmoved on price:
“We are in control. We decide. And we will be happy to keep him,” is how the club’s stance was relayed in his reporting.
The Maresca pull at the Etihad
Enzo Maresca, now Manchester City manager, is reportedly keen on bringing Fernandez with him to the Etihad, and the player wants the reunion.
According to Football Insider, cited by Football365, City are prepared to meet Chelsea’s £120m valuation before the window closes. City missed a 5pm deadline set by Chelsea on Friday 14 August for bids, but contact between the clubs is expected before Tuesday.
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From Metz to Chelsea in two years
Camara joined Monaco from Metz in 2024 in a €15m (£13m) deal and has made 75 appearances across all competitions for the Ligue 1 club, scoring six goals with 11 assists. The Senegal international offers a more dynamic, aggressive profile than Fernandez, comfortable covering ground and influencing different phases of play.
The Premier League window closes at 11pm on Tuesday, 1 September.
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