Manchester City close in on record-breaking Enzo Fernandez transfer from Chelsea

Manchester City have agreed a deal to sign Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez for more than £125m, a transfer that would make him the most expensive player in Premier League history.

The agreement between the two clubs was reported by transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano after lengthy negotiations. Fernandez is expected to undergo a medical in Manchester before the move can be formally completed.

If the transfer goes through at the reported value, the Argentina international will surpass the existing Premier League record held by Alexander Isak. The Sweden striker joined Liverpool from Newcastle United for £125m, setting the previous benchmark.

Manchester City accelerated their efforts to complete the deal during the final hours of the transfer window after Fernandez expressed a desire to join the club. One of the factors behind his preference is the opportunity to work again with Enzo Maresca, who previously coached him during their time together at Chelsea.

The negotiations had been marked by a period of tension between City and Chelsea, with the London club determined to secure a substantial fee for a midfielder who has become an important member of their squad.

Fernandez is due to complete his medical in Manchester ahead of the official announcement. The proposed signing would represent a major statement from Manchester City on the final day of the transfer window and would establish a new record for a Premier League transfer.

The 25-year-old joined Chelsea from Benfica in January 2023. Since arriving at Stamford Bridge, he has developed into one of the club’s leading players and has remained a central figure in midfield.

Fernandez also played a role in Argentina’s successful 2022 World Cup campaign, when the national team won the tournament. His performances in Qatar helped strengthen his reputation on the international stage before he continued his career in the Premier League with Chelsea.

A move to Manchester City would therefore reunite him with Maresca while also taking him to a club prepared to pay a fee beyond the current Premier League transfer record. The final completion of the deal remains subject to the medical and the formal announcement by the clubs.

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