Online Reporter
CHELSEA have told Manchester City they have until 5pm today to seal a £120million deal for Enzo Fernandez.
The Blues vice-captain has been publicly pushing for a move away from the club since March, having flirted with Spanish giants Real Madrid.
Former Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca, who has replaced Pep Guardiola at the Etihad, is keen on Fernandez.
Man City are keen to sign a replacement for Rodri, should the World Cup winner leave. Rodri is desperate to move to Barcelona but City have rejected a bid of £55m from the Catalans.
City value him at £70m but there is a feeling in Spain they can be persuaded to do business if bidding goes over £60m as he has less than a year left on his contract.
And Chelsea’s deadline for Fernandez is likely to strengthen Barca’s hand in negotiations amid fears Maresca could be left without a star midfielder.
Enzo Fernandez criticised Chelsea for their decision to sack ex-boss Maresca in an interview conducted while on international duty in March.
However, the Blues will not budge on their £120m asking price and have informed City that if it is not met before 5pm today, then he will be staying at Stamford Bridge.
Should the worst come to the worst, Elliot Anderson believes he has some of the same qualities as Rodri, so could help fill the gap in midfield.
England star Anderson, 23, said: “Yeah, I can be quite similar. I can do various things within midfield.
“I’ll play anywhere — creating, driving forward or the other role.”
New Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has said he wants Fernandez to remain at the club. However, deals for a replacement have been explored in case the 25-year-old were to leave. Bournemouth rejected a £64million deal for Alex Scott earlier in the window and while the Blues have not returned with another offer, their interest in the England man remains.
City have also explored a move for French defender Malo Gusto.
Chelsea are open to selling the right-back following the arrival of Marco Palestra from Atalanta, however they have placed a £75m asking price on him.—Sun.
