Manchester City are preparing for life after Pep Guardiola, and incoming manager Enzo Maresca has already made it clear who he wants as his first signing, according to Sky Sports Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg.
The legendary Catalan coach announced his departure from the Etihad Stadium on Friday, bringing an end to an incredible ten-year spell with the club, with the expectation that former Chelsea boss Maresca will be announced his replacement before the new season begins.
Work has already begun on the recruitment process for the summer window with the Italian coach, and it has now emerged who he has identified as being his top target to add to the squad.
Maresca Wants Fernandez Reunion at Man City
Chelsea's Enzo Fernandez
Chelsea's Enzo Fernandez
According to Sky Sports, Maresca has told Man City chiefs that he wants a deal for Chelsea star Enzo Fernandez to be completed this summer to bolster his midfield.
Fernandez, who has been described as 'world-class', was a key player at Stamford Bridge under the Italian manager as they won the Conference League and FIFA Club World Cup, but his future in London has come into question after some comments made during the March international break, which saw him suspended for two games.
Chelsea also missed out on qualifying for the Champions League, and it's understood that all parties would be open to a move away for the Argentine if the right offer came in.
It's reported that initial talks have already been held behind the scenes about a deal, and both Enzo's shared a top and very trusting relationship, which would suggest the World Cup winner would be open to making the move up north.
Fernandez has made 168 appearances for the Blues since joining in a £105m deal from Benfica, scoring 31 goals.
Fernandez and Maresca Reunion on the Cards
chelsea enzo maresca
Maresca's imminent arrival at the Etihad Stadium means that he will need to make an imprint on his squad, to ensure they can fulfill his demands in the new season.
The arrival of Fernandez would be the ultimate statement of that, considering how important he was for him at Chelsea, but it would also show they are still a club that is desirable by some of the top players, despite Guardiola not being around anymore.
City have a huge summer ahead of them now, and it's clear they are working hard behind the scenes to ensure the new manager has everything he needs to be a success.
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