Manchester City Set to Make Formal Move for Enzo Fernández

City have maintained their interest in Fernández despite previously failing to meet a deadline set by Chelsea for a potential deal. The Premier League champions are now expected to return with a fresh proposal as they look to strengthen their midfield following Rodri's departure to Barcelona.

Fernández is understood to be receptive to the possibility of joining City, while reports indicate that contact between the player's camp and the Manchester club has continued in recent days.

Chelsea demand significant fee

Chelsea have made their position clear: Fernández will only be allowed to leave if their financial demands are met and the club can secure suitable reinforcements before the window shuts.

The Blues previously set a valuation of around £120 million for the 25-year-old and had given interested clubs a deadline to submit an offer. City did not make a bid before that deadline, but their interest has not disappeared.

Recent reports suggest Chelsea's asking price may have increased further, with some reports putting the club's latest valuation at around €140 million.

Chelsea's reluctance to sell without strengthening their own squad could prove crucial. The club have reportedly identified potential midfield replacements, including Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton, Bournemouth's Alex Scott and Monaco's Manu Koné.

City continue midfield rebuild

Fernández has emerged as a potential target as City reshape their midfield following Rodri's move to Barcelona and Tijjani Reijnders' departure for Saudi Arabia.

City have already spent heavily on midfield reinforcements, signing Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest and agreeing a major deal for Lille teenager Ayyoub Bouaddi. However, Fernández remains an attractive option for manager Enzo Maresca.

The Argentine previously worked with Maresca at Chelsea, while his experience at the highest level makes him an appealing candidate to help fill the void left by Rodri.

Fernández remains a Chelsea player for now and featured as a substitute in the club's 3-2 Premier League victory over Fulham on Monday.

With the transfer window closing on September 1, City's next move could determine whether one of the summer's biggest Premier League transfers becomes a reality.