Enzo Maresca dreams of Chelsea star Enzo Fernandez replacing Rodri at Man City | OneFootball

Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez is a target for Manchester City boss Enzo Maresca. He has hinted at being open to leaving Stamford Bridge this summer.

According to Gianluca DiMarzio, the Chelsea star is their ‘dream successor’ to Rodri, who could be on his way back to Spain.

However, the report mentions that the Blues value Fernandez highly and he is a key player. It remains unclear whether they will even entertain any negotiations.

Chelsea suspended Fernandez last season for statements which alluded to him wanting to leave the West London outfit.

He was reportedly angling for a move to Spain, but nobody has stepped forward so far with an offer, fearing the reported £120 million (€140 million) price tag.

The 25-year-old enjoyed another productive season, delivering 10 goals and four assists (11 big chances created) in 36 Premier League appearances.

He added another three goals and two assists in the UEFA Champions League as Chelsea crashed out in the round of 16.

Fernandez can play comfortably in the number 10 position, as a box-to-box operator, or as a deep-lying playmaker.

He is comfortably one of the best in the world, despite his lack of athleticism, which means he struggles defensively in the notoriously fast and furious English top-flight.

Chelsea cannot afford to lose Fernandez

If Chelsea are serious about building a serious project under Xabi Alonso, they must hold on to Fernandez at all costs and ignore City.

There aren’t many upgrades in the market, and they aren’t exactly looking to move to Stamford Bridge at this point.

Besides being a terrific footballer, he is a ‘leader‘ and one of the few consistent performers in the side. Also, he always manages to stay injury-free.

Chelsea should cough up the salary increase he deserves and try to keep him on their books.