Manchester City are expected to make a renewed approach for Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez despite missing an earlier deadline to complete a £120 million transfer.
Chelsea had set City a deadline of 5pm on August 13 to pay £120 million for the 25-year-old Argentina international. City did not meet that deadline, but contact has continued with his agent, Javier Pastore, with Fernandez open to moving to the Etihad Stadium.
Fernandez featured off the bench on Monday night, playing the final half-hour of Chelsea's 3-2 victory away at Fulham. The midfielder signed a long-term contract upon moving to Stamford Bridge and has six years remaining on his current deal.
Chelsea valuation and transfer conditions
Chelsea will now demand more than £120 million as the closing of the transfer window approaches. The West London club will also need to secure a replacement before agreeing to sell the midfielder.
Fernandez built a strong working relationship with new Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca when the Italian coach was in charge at Chelsea.
Xabi Alonso addresses Fernandez future
Speaking to BBC Match of the Day following the victory at Craven Cottage, Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso addressed speculation surrounding the midfielder's future.
Alonso told BBC Match of the Day: "In football, I am not surprised by anything. We will see."
"My wish is that we know what will happen for the future but we will see this week," Alonso added.
Manchester City transfer activity and squad news
Representatives of alternative midfield targets for both Chelsea and Manchester City anticipate that City will attempt to complete a deal for Fernandez first before other secondary transfer moves fall into place.
Manchester City have already agreed terms to sign teenage midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi from French club Lille and winger Allan Elias from Brazilian side Palmeiras.
City are also in the process of finalizing the sale of midfielder Nico Gonzalez to Newcastle United for £50 million, while retaining an interest in Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo.
Regarding recent team lineups, Chelsea opted to start Reece James and Romeo Lavia in central midfield against Fulham on Monday. Manchester City selected Elliot Anderson and Marc Guehi in midfield for their 2-1 Premier League victory over Bournemouth on Sunday.
