Selling Fernandez at this stage of Chelsea's transition would be the latest in a string of grave missteps in the transfer market by BlueCo. Having been there since almost the very start of their stewardship, the Argentine is one of the faces of their so-called 'project' - something he has demonstrated that he is heavily invested in.
"I think last season was the first year in which we've really seen what the Chelsea project is about, having seen only a few moments of potential on the pitch in recent years," he said in a recent interview with Ben Jacobs. "We aren't settling for that as we want to keep competing at the highest level and fighting for the Premier League and Champions League, so I think we're on the right path."
Indeed, despite the chaos that has unfolded around him, Fernandez had bought in even before he signed with the club. "When Chelsea came in for me, I had no doubts," he continued. "I wanted to make the move up, in sporting terms, to the Premier League. I wanted to come to Chelsea at all costs and didn't want to let the opportunity pass me by. Everyone knows that and thank God it worked out. I’m here now and I’m very happy."
Though Maresca's exit has brought more uncertainty, there is no doubt that Chelsea stand within reach of tangible, consistent success once again, if they play their cards right. But what kind of message does selling one of your star players to exactly the kind of elite club they want to be competing with send? This is not the way for Chelsea to take that next step.