Manchester City boss Enzo Maresca has confirmed the club will not be making a bid for Enzo Fernandez by 5pm on Friday, despite Chelsea setting a deadline for interested parties. Chelsea wanted clarity on whether the Argentine midfielder would remain at the club for the upcoming season and made it clear that any bid must be submitted by the close of play on Friday.
Fernandez's Future and City's Interest
Fernandez has been heavily linked with a move to Real Madrid and previously expressed a desire to live in the Spanish capital, which led to a reprimand. Real Madrid have publicly stated they do not want to sign him, but City's links with Maresca have fueled speculation of a move to the Etihad. Chelsea would demand £120million before considering a sale, which would be a club-record fee for City.
However, Maresca conceded that City will not be offering a bid before the deadline. He said: "Not today to be honest, I don’t think we’re going to do something today."
Rodri's Situation Adds Urgency
City's potential need to act could be motivated by Rodri's future, with the Spaniard entering the final year of his contract. Rodri returned to Manchester after winning the World Cup and being named the tournament's best player. He has been a key figure under Pep Guardiola, but as City embark on a new era, the Ballon d'Or winner could choose to return to Spain.
Real Madrid have had a long-term interest, but Barcelona have moved ahead in the pecking order and have seen bids rejected. City are thought to be seeking £70million if they sell, and Maresca has not dampened speculation regarding Rodri's potential departure. The Italian said: "As I have already said, the window is open. We can buy players, sell players. Anything can happen. I just saw Rodri now in the building, I just gave him a big hug and we will see what happens."
Midfield Revamp Underway
Tijjani Reijnders has moved to Saudi Arabia for £52m after a difficult first year in Manchester, and Bernardo Silva has left following the expiry of his contract. City have had to revamp their midfield, with Elliot Anderson already signed in a club-record deal from Nottingham Forest. The club are also reportedly closing in on the £85m signing of Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille, who impressed with Morocco at the World Cup.
