Manchester City have identified Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernández as one of their primary targets ahead of the summer transfer window, according to reports from Spanish outlet Fichajes.
The Argentine has moved high up City’s shortlist as the club prepares to enter a new era following Pep Guardiola’s departure from the Etihad Stadium.
Reports suggest Enzo Maresca is expected to take over as Manchester City manager, a development that adds significant weight to the Fernández speculation circulating across European media.
Maresca previously worked with Fernández at Chelsea and is said to have built a strong working relationship with the 25-year-old midfielder during that time.
Separate reports have also indicated that initial behind-the-scenes conversations have already taken place between parties connected to a potential transfer move.
Fernández holds strong credentials on paper, including a World Cup winners medal, Premier League experience, and the technical quality required to operate in a possession-based system.
Manchester City face uncertainty in their midfield, with Bernardo Silva’s future unresolved and Rodri attracting reported interest from Real Madrid ahead of next season.
The Sun has reported that Fernández could be viewed as a long-term midfield addition under Maresca if the new manager takes charge at the Etihad as expected.
Chelsea signed Fernández from Benfica in January 2023 for a significant fee, and his current contract runs until 2032, giving the club strong contractual leverage in any negotiations.
Club sources have made clear that Chelsea do not intend to sell Fernández at a loss, particularly following another difficult and disappointing season at Stamford Bridge.
Fernández wants to play Champions League football, and Chelsea’s failure to qualify has complicated their efforts to retain top-level players at the club.
Journalist Ben Jacobs has reported that Fernández would welcome a bid from Real Madrid, while informal talks have also taken place with Manchester City regarding a possible move.
Selling a key midfielder directly to a Premier League rival would carry significant reputational risk for Chelsea unless the transfer fee reached an extraordinary level.
For Manchester City, Fernández would represent a smart and experienced addition to a midfield group that requires reshaping ahead of a new managerial cycle.
For Chelsea, losing Fernández to a domestic competitor would represent yet another damaging symbol of a project that has struggled to deliver consistent progress.
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