Manchester City are reportedly planning to make another move for Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez.
The Premier League club previously set a deadline of 5 p.m. on August 13 for Manchester City to meet a £120 million asking price, a deadline that passed without a bid.
Despite the missed deadline, communication between City and Fernandez's agent, Javier Pastore, has continued. City are aware that the 25-year-old Argentine international is open to a transfer. Fernandez recently played the final half-hour of Chelsea's 3-2 victory over Fulham on Monday night.
Fernandez previously shared a strong working relationship with City's new manager, Enzo Maresca, during their time together at Chelsea. He has six years remaining on his current contract with the London club.
Chelsea is now expected to demand a fee exceeding £120 million as the transfer window nears its close. The club will also prioritize securing a replacement midfielder before agreeing to any sale.
Representatives for other midfield targets at both clubs anticipate City's focus on Fernandez before advancing on alternative options. Manchester City has agreed to sign Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille and is in the process of selling Nico Gonzalez to Newcastle United for £50 million. The club has also agreed to terms for winger Allan Elias from Palmeiras and has expressed interest in Liverpool's Cody Gakpo.