City’s chase for Fernandez stalls as Chelsea refuses to sell

Manchester City have identified Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez as their prime target to replace departing Spanish midfielder Rodri, the Spaniard, even though Chelsea have taken a firm stance against selling the 25‑year‑old. The move comes as Rodri is reportedly close to leaving for Barcelona.

New head coach Enzo Maresca has identified the Argentine as his ideal successor to the departing Spanish midfielder. Maresca, who worked closely with Fernandez during his time at Stamford Bridge, praised his leadership, passing range, tactical intelligence and on‑pitch personality.

Transfers insider Gianluca Di Marzio reported that Fernandez has emerged as Manchester City’s dream target to replace Rodri. Di Marzio highlighted Maresca’s belief that the former Chelsea player fits the profile perfectly.

Chelsea, however, are firmly opposed to selling, viewing the 25‑year‑old as a cornerstone of their project. Fernandez remains under contract until 2032 and is valued at over £100 million, a figure that would likely rise with a direct move to a Premier League rival.

Rodri, 30, has reportedly made clear that his priority is a move to Barcelona, a Catalan club. Manchester City have already rejected an opening offer from the Catalan side, with Spanish media estimating the total package at around €60 million, including a €45 million upfront payment.

While Fernandez remains Maresca’s preferred option, Manchester City’s most concrete route to replacing Rodri currently runs through Lille’s 18‑year‑old Moroccan Ayyoub Bouaddi. Negotiations are in the final stages, with reports placing Bouaddi’s fee at about €100 million and a five‑year personal‑terms agreement already reached. Nevertheless, the club has not ruled out pursuing the Argentine midfielder.