Man City Take Massive Swing for Enzo Fernandez—But Everything Could Hinge on Rodri

Manchester City are reportedly chasing down Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernández over a potential blockbuster summer transfer, one Enzo Maresca “would love” to see happen.

Fernández began the summer heavily linked with a move to Real Madrid, only for the 15-time European champions to come out and say they have “no intention” of signing the Argentina international.

The transfer buzz surrounding Fernández died down after the brutal statement, especially now with the 25-year-old set to join up with Chelsea on Wednesday following the 2026 World Cup. Yet the midfielder, who previously flirted with a move out of west London, could be thrust back into the spotlight after an approach from Manchester City.

According to Fabrizio Romano, the Cityzens have made contact with Fernández’s camp about a potential move to the Etihad Stadium. Maresca is thought to support a reunion with his former player, but the transfer all hinges on the price.

Chelsea “insist” on only parting ways with Fernández for £120 million ($162 million). City “hope to negotiate” a deal, but the Blues appear unwilling to budge for anything below their asking price.

How Rodri’s Potential Transfer Plays Into Fernández’s Future

City are noticeably preparing for a future without the newly-crowned Golden Ball and World Cup winner, Rodri. The midfielder reportedly decided to join Barcelona this summer, leaving Manchester just one year before his current deal expires.

The English club rejected the Catalans’ opening bid of $52 million (£38.5 million) for Rodri, but negotiations are still under way. City are also expected to sign World Cup breakout star Ayyoub Bouaddi, but reports claim the teenager is not joining Maresca’s ranks to plug the hole Rodri would leave.

That honor could instead go to Fernández. The Chelsea man has established himself as one of the best midfielders in the Premier League and reached his best form under Maresca’s leadership.

Enzo Maresca, Enzo Fernandez — Enzo Maresca is keen to reunite with his namesake. | James Gill/Danehouse/Getty Images

Working with the Italian boss again, this time in a sky blue shirt, could be the escape route Fernández has been looking for ever since he had a public falling out with the Chelsea hierarchy after he was handed a two-game suspension for comments about a potential transfer last season.

Yet City just signed Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest this summer for a staggering $153.9 million (£116 million). The club also has Nico González, Tijjani Reijnders and Mateo Kovačić in the engine room.

Bringing Fernández in would only really make sense if Rodri indeed completes a move to Catalonia. Should the deal fall through and the Spaniard remains in Manchester, then City would likely be unwilling to meet Chelsea’s high asking price for Fernández, no matter how alluring it would be to see the Argentine bring his versatility and playmaking to the Etihad.

Maresca has also reportedly made direct contact with Chelsea winger Pedro Neto, a potential replacement for Savinho should the Brazilian leave City this summer.

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