Chelsea has taken a decisive step regarding Enzo Fernández’s future, setting a firm deadline for clubs interested in signing the Argentine midfielder. The London club has informed potential suitors that they must submit an offer worth £120 million by 5 p.m. local time on Friday.

The valuation, equivalent to around $162 million, reflects Chelsea’s desire to recover and surpass the £107 million it paid for Fernández in 2023. The club has also made it clear that offers arriving after the deadline will not be considered as it attempts to settle the situation before the new Premier League season begins.

Manchester City is among the clubs most closely linked with the midfielder. One of the main factors behind that interest is his relationship with Enzo Maresca, who worked with Fernández during his time at Chelsea.

Maresca consistently praised the Argentine’s qualities and backed him during difficult moments. Under the Italian coach, Fernández became increasingly important to Chelsea, taking on greater responsibility within the squad and playing a key role in the team that won the UEFA Conference League and the Club World Cup.

Now at Manchester City, Maresca could look to reunite with the midfielder as he rebuilds the club’s midfield. Rodri’s uncertain future has created the need for reinforcements, although City has already invested heavily in Elliot Anderson and is also progressing toward a deal for Ayyoub Bouaddi.

Chelsea, however, has little interest in making the transfer easy. The club considers Fernández an important part of Xabi Alonso’s project, while the player remains under contract until 2032.

Fernández has already made a significant impact in England, registering 19 goals and 17 assists in 117 Premier League appearances.

The message from Stamford Bridge is therefore clear: any club that wants Enzo Fernández must meet Chelsea’s £120 million valuation before Friday’s deadline.

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