Chelsea to offer Enzo Fernandez a new deal at the end of the season | OneFootball

Chelsea will reopen contract talks with midfielder Enzo Fernandez at the end of the season per the Daily Mail.

He wants improved terms in line with some of the club’s highest-profile earners, including Moises Caicedo, Reece James and Cole Palmer.

Discussions are expected to resume once the Blues resolve their managerial situation.

The Chelsea hierarchy remain focused on appointing a new boss, with Andoni Iraola, Xabi Alonso and Sebastian Hoeness among the names linked with the role.

However, Fernandez’s future is also emerging as a key issue behind the scenes as preparations begin for a crucial transfer window.

The midfielder endured a turbulent spell earlier this season after reportedly unsettling figures at Stamford Bridge.

Some of his comments were interpreted as flirting with a potential move to Real Madrid during the international break.

Chelsea responded by internally disciplining Fernandez, sidelining him for two matches.

Despite that episode, he has quickly re-established himself as one of the central figures in the squad. He wore the captain’s armband again in recent weeks.

He delivered another reminder of his importance with a decisive display in Chelsea’s FA Cup semi-final win over Leeds United at Wembley Stadium.

Chelsea can’t afford to lose Fernandez

Fernandez has increasingly become one of Chelsea’s most reliable performers in big moments. The 25-year-old has bagged 13 goals and six assists in 49 appearances this season.

He is on course to record 20+ goal contributions for the second successive campaign.

The Blues cannot afford to lose the 40-cap Argentine international, who is comfortable at sitting deep and controlling midfield proceedings or crashing the box to score.

Fernandez rarely ever gets injured. His energy and leadership make him a key figure that Chelsea cannot afford to lose.

There aren’t many players who can replace his skill set.

Chelsea need to give Fernandez a contract that reflects his status as a cornerstone of the club’s long-term project.

They must also surround him with players capable of challenging for top honours.