Enzo Fernández Stays at Chelsea as Man City Miss Deadline 2026

Enzo Fernández's future at Chelsea has been clarified after Manchester City failed to meet the deadline for a £120m bid. The Argentina midfielder will remain at Stamford Bridge, according to club sources, as the transfer window enters its final days. Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca now expects a busy end to the window, with both incomings and outgoings on the agenda.

Enzo Fernández Transfer Saga: What Happened?

Manchester City did not submit a formal offer before Chelsea's 5pm deadline on Friday, effectively ending their immediate pursuit of the 23-year-old. However, reports suggest City could still test the water with a late bid, though Chelsea are confident of keeping their star player. Maresca, who previously coached Fernández at Chelsea, acknowledged the situation but kept his focus on the upcoming Community Shield final against Arsenal.

Manchester City's Deadline Miss

City's failure to meet the deadline is a significant development. The club had been linked with a move for Fernández all summer, but their reluctance to meet Chelsea's valuation has now forced them to look elsewhere. Maresca said, "For sure there are things we need to do, how many I don't know, can be one, can be two, depends also if players want to leave, so we can see." This suggests City are still active in the market, but the Fernández deal appears off the table for now.

Chelsea's Stance

Chelsea have consistently maintained that Fernández is not for sale at any price, and the club's stance has been vindicated. The midfielder, who played a key role in Argentina's World Cup triumph, is seen as a cornerstone of Maresca's project. With the transfer window still open, Chelsea are now focusing on strengthening other areas of the squad while ensuring no key players depart.

Other Transfer Moves at Manchester City

City are also dealing with other transfer matters. They have rejected two bids from Barcelona for Rodri, but a third offer is anticipated. Rodri, who has a year remaining on his contract, returned to the club after his holiday and Maresca gave him a warm welcome. Meanwhile, Tijjani Reijnders is set to join Saudi Pro League side Al-Qadsiah after a £51m fee was agreed. City are also close to signing 18-year-old Morocco international Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille, as they look to bolster their squad for a four-front challenge.

Key Takeaways

• Manchester City missed Chelsea's deadline for Enzo Fernández, keeping the midfielder at Stamford Bridge.
• Chelsea expect a busy end to the transfer window, with potential incomings and outgoings.
• City are still active, with Rodri's future uncertain and Reijnders set to leave.
• Maresca's focus remains on the Community Shield final against Arsenal.

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