Sky Sports confirms Man City’s stance on potential move for Enzo Fernandez | OneFootball

Chelsea Stand Firm on Enzo Fernandez as Manchester City Look Elsewhere

Chelsea’s position on Enzo Fernandez appears firm, deliberate and strategically important. According to Sky Sports, Manchester City “will prioritise signing Elliot Anderson this summer and have no intention of pursuing a move for Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez,” despite reports linking the Premier League champions with the Argentina midfielder.

That clarification matters because Fernandez remains one of Chelsea’s most valuable assets. Sky Sports report that the Blues have placed a £100m price tag on the player, while also stressing that “Chelsea are not trying to sell the player.” For a club still refining its midfield identity, that is a significant marker.

Fernandez has a “Chelsea contract until 2032,” which gives the club control. It also means any suitor would need to present a deal of serious financial substance. Chelsea paid Benfica €121m, around £104m, in January 2023, and there is little indication they are ready to accept a loss or weaken their squad without a major replacement plan.

Photo IMAGO

Madrid interest complicates Chelsea planning

Real Madrid’s admiration adds another layer. Sky Sports report that “Real Madrid will sign a midfielder this summer and Fernandez is one of their top targets.” That puts Chelsea in a familiar position, holding a player wanted by one of Europe’s most powerful clubs.

The key issue is whether Fernandez sees his long term future in west London. He was dropped for two games in April after admitting he “would welcome living in Madrid.” The player and his agent later apologised, while also seeking improved terms at Chelsea.

Chelsea’s decision is therefore not simply about market value. It is about authority, squad status and timing. Selling Fernandez now would create a major midfield vacancy, especially when elite replacements are expensive and difficult to secure.

City prioritise Elliot Anderson

For Manchester City, Sky Sports are clear. “City’s priority remains the signing of Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest.” The report adds that City are in “pole position” to sign Anderson, despite interest from Manchester United and Arsenal.

That pursuit appears to fit City’s wider planning. Anderson offers Premier League experience, midfield flexibility and room for further development. For Chelsea, it removes one potential bidder from the Fernandez conversation, although Madrid’s interest remains far more relevant.

Maresca talks and wider City plans

City are also progressing talks with Enzo Maresca about succeeding Pep Guardiola. Sky Sports report that a three year contract is expected to be finalised soon, although “all the points of a proposed three-year contract are not yet fully agreed.”

Beyond midfield, City are monitoring forwards Yan Diomande and Eli Junior Kroupi, while Feyenoord right back Givairo Read is also being tracked. Still, the headline remains clear, City are not moving for Fernandez, Chelsea are not actively selling, and Real Madrid may be the club most likely to test that resolve.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Manchester City fan’s point of view, this report feels like smart business and exactly the sort of clarity needed during a huge summer. Enzo Fernandez is a fine midfielder, technically gifted, brave in possession and capable of controlling tempo, but at more than £100m, he feels like a Chelsea problem rather than a City solution.

Elliot Anderson makes far more sense. He has Premier League rhythm, energy, bite and the sort of development curve City can shape. If Pep Guardiola is leaving and Enzo Maresca is arriving, City need players who can grow into the next version of the team, not simply headline names with enormous price tags.

Anderson could be a brilliant signing. He looks built for a possession side, but also has that edge City sometimes lack when games become scrappy. With United and Arsenal interested, beating both to his signature would feel even sweeter.

The Maresca angle is fascinating too. If City are planning a new cycle, then midfield control, younger forwards and right back depth all make sense. Fernandez would bring attention. Anderson could bring evolution. For City supporters, that is far more exciting.