Chelsea set Friday deadline for Enzo Fernández sale to Man City

Chelsea have imposed a strict deadline on Enzo Fernández’s potential transfer to Manchester City, with the London club demanding a final decision by Friday at 5pm UK time. The Argentine World Cup winner remains a top target for Premier League rivals City amid ongoing negotiations. Chelsea have set a firm cutoff point to prevent prolonged discussions from disrupting their season preparations. Chelsea’s ultimatum to Manchester City Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano revealed that Chelsea executives have issued an ultimatum to Manchester City officials regarding Fernández’s future. The Blues have communicated a £120 million valuation for the 25-year-old midfielder, along with preferred payment terms. Romano stated that while City have been in talks with Fernández’s representatives for days, Chelsea’s position remains non-negotiable. “BREAKING: Chelsea fix Friday 5pm UK time deadline for Enzo Fernández exit. Manchester City in talks with his camp for days but #CFC made it clear: £120M fee with payment terms also communicated. £120M by Friday at 5pm or Chelsea will not sell Enzo to Manchester City,” Romano tweeted on August 12, 2026. Manchester City’s tactical interest in Fernández Manchester City’s pursuit of Fernández aligns with manager Enzo Maresca’s plans to restructure his central midfield ahead of the new season. With Spanish international Rodri facing potential exit to Barcelona, City have identified the Argentine as a replacement capable of anchoring their midfield. Maresca, who previously coached Fernández at Chelsea, views the player as a tactical fit for his system. The Blues’ firm stance on both the £120 million fee and the Friday deadline leaves City with a critical choice: commit to the record financial outlay by the deadline or abandon the deal entirely. The outcome will determine whether one of the summer’s biggest transfers materializes or collapses under Chelsea’s conditions.