Manchester City is reportedly considering Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernández as a potential replacement for Rodri, should the Spanish international leave the club. Fernández, 25, joined Chelsea from Benfica in January 2023 and has become a key player for the London club.
Manager Enzo Maresca, who previously worked with Fernández at Chelsea, is said to favor the Argentine international as a replacement. Maresca made Fernández captain during his time at Chelsea when Reece James was unavailable, indicating he views the player as both talented and a leader. Fernández has made more Premier League appearances under Maresca than any other player, with his attacking runs and presence in the opposition box noted as attractive qualities. In 54 appearances for Chelsea last season, he scored 15 goals and provided seven assists, leading the team in successful passes, passes into the box, and successful passes into the final third among the discussed options.
Chelsea is reportedly seeking a transfer fee of £120 million for Fernández, a significant sum considering Manchester City's previous investment of £116 million on another player. The London club has set a deadline of Friday at 17:00 BST for any offers, aiming to resolve uncertainty over his future before the season begins. Chelsea is also reportedly willing to fully reintegrate Fernández into their squad and considers him a key player.
Fernández recently returned to Chelsea training after representing Argentina in the World Cup final, where he was sent off in their loss to Spain. The transfer speculation comes as Rodri's potential departure from Manchester City looms, with the club exploring options to fill the crucial midfield role.