STATUS: REPORTED TALKS
Manchester City have opened direct talks with Chelsea over a possible transfer for Enzo Fernández, according to reports published ahead of the window closing on 1 September 2026.
Sky Sports, citing Sky in Italy, reports that the clubs have moved into direct contact. The Guardian also reports that talks have begun and that the Argentina midfielder would be open to working with Enzo Maresca again.
This represents a significant status change. The earlier story remained at the reported-interest stage, with City failing to submit a bid by Chelsea's previous deadline. The newly reported direct contact moves the case into talks, but not a completed agreement.
Chelsea are described as willing to consider a sale only for the right price and if they can improve their squad before the window closes. Neither club has issued an official announcement confirming a bid, an accepted fee or an agreement.
Fernández is under contract with Chelsea until 2031. Figures mentioned during the summer remain reported valuations and are not treated as an agreed transfer fee.
WHAT REMAINS UNCONFIRMED
There is no confirmation of a bid, the value of the operation, personal terms, a medical or a signature. The transfer will only be described as complete after an announcement by Chelsea, Manchester City or the player.
SOURCES: Sky Sports, 1 September 2026 — https://www.skysports.com/transfer/news/12691/13577767/enzo-fernandez-transfer-news-man-city-open-talks-with-chelsea-to-sign-argentina-midfielder · The Guardian, 31 August 2026 — https://www.theguardian.com/football/2026/aug/31/manchester-city-spurs-iliman-ndiaye-enzo-fernandez-deal-richarlison-mudryk
