Transfer news: Man City set to make move for Enzo Fernández
By Luke Oluoch, August 26, 2026Manchester City are poised to make a late move for Enzo Fernández in what would be the biggest Premier League transfer of the summer.
Chelsea wants at least Ksh20.98 billion for Fernández, and sources in England expect City to test the resolve at Stamford Bridge with an approach during a frantic final week of the window.
Follow up
The Manchester club previously failed to submit a proposal after Chelsea handed them a Friday, August 14, 2026, deadline, but they are expected to follow up on their interest with a formal bid in the coming weeks.
Enzo remains a valuable midfield asset for the Blues since making his record-breaking move from SL Benfica and establishing himself as an important figure at Stamford Bridge.
However, changing times have seen his reputation and relationship with Blues fans come under focus. He was back to a hostile reception in Chelsea’s final home preseason game against Real Sociedad.
Fernández was part of Chelsea’s opening-week victory at Fulham on Monday, August 24, 2026. He received another hostile reception from fans before leaving the pitch at full-time while his teammates stayed to acknowledge the travelling crowd.
Events at City have also intensified the chase for the player after Spanish midfielder Rodri moved on to Barcelona. That void, along with the departure of Tijjani Reijnders, has left City needing another established central midfielder, potentially reopening the door for Fernández’s move and a potential reunion with Enzo Maresca, who previously made him captain at Chelsea.
Meanwhile, in a bid to replace the midfielder, Chelsea are said to be keen on bringing in new reinforcements.
Other than the Argentine midfielder, Nicolas Jackson, and the Arsenal duo of Gabriel Martinelli and Gabriel Jesus, are among the other high-profile player moves expected in the final week of the transfer window.
Saudi giants Al Hilal are already in advanced talks with Arsenal and are expected to make a record-breaking deal for the Brazilian winger. Meanwhile, Nicolas Jackson remains another candidate for a potential exit from Chelsea with Aston Villa and Atletico Madrid all interested in the striker’s services.