Manchester City have struck a deal in principle to sign Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernández for around €140 million (£120m), making it one of the most expensive transfers in Premier League history. The move was agreed in the closing hours of the summer transfer window and confirmed by multiple reporters, including Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio.
What Happened?
City and Chelsea reached an agreement in principle for Fernández on deadline day, with the Argentine World Cup winner set to leave Stamford Bridge after three and a half seasons. The fee, reported at roughly £120 million, would rank among the highest ever paid for a player by an English club. Fernández has since been pictured travelling to complete a medical ahead of the move being finalised.
The deal caps a dramatic day of Chelsea business. With Fernández heading out, the west London club moved quickly to find a replacement, turning their attention to AS Monaco’s Lamine Camara after an earlier attempt to sign Roma’s Manu Koné collapsed.
Latest Update
As of the latest reporting, City and Chelsea have an agreement in principle, and Fernández has been sent for a medical examination. Official confirmation from either club had not yet been published at the time of writing, though reporters covering the deal describe it as close to being finalised. Fans are advised to watch both clubs’ official channels for the formal announcement, since fees and terms can still shift slightly before signatures are put on a contract.
Fernández joined Chelsea in January 2023 for a then British-record fee and has made well over 100 appearances for the club, playing a key role in midfield since his arrival. His potential departure would represent a significant reshaping of Chelsea’s engine room heading into the new season.
Why It Matters
For the player: A move to Manchester City would place Fernández inside one of the most decorated squads in Europe, working under Pep Guardiola, one of the most demanding coaches in the game when it comes to midfield control and positioning.
For Chelsea: Losing a player of Fernández’s profile leaves a gap in Chelsea’s midfield, which explains the club’s rapid pivot toward Monaco’s Camara. The fee involved, however, gives Chelsea significant funds to reinvest before the window shuts.
For Manchester City: Guardiola’s side have been retooling their midfield in recent transfer windows, and a marquee addition of this size signals intent to strengthen the middle of the park further as they look to reclaim domestic and European silverware.
For fans: Both fanbases now face a nervous wait for official confirmation, with deadline day always carrying the risk that late deals can still break down before paperwork is completed.
What Happens Next?
The next step is the completion of Fernández’s medical and the formal signing of contracts before the transfer window closes. If everything goes as reported, both clubs are expected to release official statements confirming the transfer fee, contract length and shirt number. Chelsea, meanwhile, are expected to press ahead with their approach for Camara as they look to strengthen their own midfield before the deadline passes.
Key Facts
- Manchester City have agreed a deal in principle for Chelsea’s Enzo Fernández.
- The reported fee is around €140 million (roughly £120m).
- Fernández has been sent for a medical as part of the process.
- The move comes on the final day of the 2026 summer transfer window.
- Chelsea are pursuing Monaco’s Lamine Camara as a possible replacement.
- Fernández joined Chelsea from Benfica in January 2023.
FAQ
What is the reported fee for Enzo Fernández’s move to Manchester City?
The transfer is reported at around €140 million, which converts to approximately £120 million.
Has the transfer been officially confirmed?
Not yet. As of the latest update, the deal is agreed in principle and Fernández has been sent for a medical, but neither club has issued an official statement.
Why is Chelsea selling Enzo Fernández?
Reports suggest the fee on offer was significant enough for Chelsea to sanction the sale, with the club moving immediately to identify a replacement in Monaco’s Lamine Camara.
When did Enzo Fernández join Chelsea?
He signed for Chelsea from Benfica in January 2023.
Where can fans follow the latest on this transfer?
Fans should check the official Manchester City and Chelsea channels, along with established transfer reporters, for confirmation once the deal is finalised.
