Manchester City set to escalate pursuit of Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez

Manchester City are preparing to make a formal offer to Chelsea for Enzo Fernandez after the Argentina midfielder signalled he is open to joining the club’s project, according to Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano.

Fernandez has emerged as one of Manchester City’s leading options during the current transfer window. His willingness to consider the move follows interest from City manager Enzo Maresca, who wants to bring the midfielder to the Etihad Stadium.

City’s next step is expected to be an official approach to Chelsea. Until now, the Premier League champions’ interest has been limited to contacts and negotiations, but they are now preparing to make a more concrete move as the transfer window draws towards its conclusion.

Chelsea’s position remains firm. The club will only consider allowing Fernandez to leave if it receives an appropriate fee and is satisfied it can replace the Argentina international before the transfer window closes.

Chelsea previously placed a £120m valuation on Fernandez, a figure that represents the main obstacle to an agreement with Manchester City.

City have continued to monitor the midfielder despite failing to submit an offer by a deadline previously set by Chelsea. The club has now revived its efforts with the end of the transfer window approaching.

The potential deal would bring together two Premier League clubs with contrasting positions in the negotiations. Manchester City are seeking to strengthen their midfield by pursuing a player they regard as a priority option, while Chelsea are focused on protecting their squad and ensuring any departure is properly covered.

Fernandez’s openness to the move could help advance discussions, but Chelsea’s financial expectations remain central to whether an agreement can be reached. City must now decide whether to meet or negotiate the £120m valuation when it submits its formal proposal.

For the moment, no official bid has been made, but the expected approach would mark a significant change in the situation. City’s previous contacts had not resulted in a formal offer, even after Chelsea’s earlier deadline passed.

The latest developments indicate that Manchester City remain determined to pursue Fernandez rather than end their interest. However, the transfer will depend on whether the two clubs can bridge the gap over the fee and whether Chelsea can secure a replacement before the market closes.