Enzo Fernandez left out of Chelsea squad as Manchester City weigh £120m move

Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez will miss Sunday’s Premier League meeting with Brighton as talks over his future at the club continue, according to French outlet RMC.

Fernandez has not been included in Chelsea’s matchday squad for the fixture at Stamford Bridge, with Manchester City reportedly interested in signing the Argentina international. His omission is understood to be linked to the possibility of a move away from Chelsea before the summer transfer window closes.

Chelsea are due to play their second league match of the season against Brighton on Sunday evening. The report says the club is already making plans in case Fernandez leaves in the coming days, with Monaco midfielder Lamine Camara among the players being considered as a potential replacement.

Manchester City are expected to submit a formal offer for Fernandez at the agreed valuation. English media reports have put that figure at 140m euros for the 24-year-old midfielder.

City are working to complete the deal at the request of Italian manager Enzo Maresca, who wants to reunite with his former player. The club are seeking a replacement for Rodri following his move to Barcelona.

With only two days remaining before the summer transfer window closes, Manchester City are attempting to accelerate negotiations and strengthen their squad before the deadline.

Fernandez joined Chelsea and has made 170 appearances for the club, scoring 31 goals and providing 30 assists. His potential departure would represent a significant change for a side that began the new league campaign with a 3-2 victory over Fulham.

Manchester City have also won both of their opening matches. They defeated Bournemouth 2-1 before recording a 4-1 victory against Crystal Palace.

The immediate focus for Chelsea, however, is their meeting with Brighton and the absence of Fernandez, as speculation over whether he will remain at Stamford Bridge intensifies. RMC says his omission could be connected to the club’s desire to resolve his situation, while City continue to work towards a possible late move.