Man City have backed away from making a bid for Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez, according to reports.
The Daily Mail claim that the Cityzens have “distanced themselves from the idea” of signing the Argentinian international.
At the time of writing, Elliot Anderson is still believed to be the club’s primary target, despite having had two bids rejected by Nottingham Forest.
Most Read on Man City News
However, Fernandez had been named as a potential alternative, with the 25-year-old potentially reuniting with his former coach, Enzo Maresca.
Why have Man City cooled their interest?
Chelsea’s £120m asking price is likely to be partly to blame for the decision not to pursue Fernandez.
The midfielder may also have a preference to join Real Madrid, having previously expressed an interest in moving to the Spanish capital.
However, you can’t help but wonder whether the ongoing negotiations between City and Chelsea over Maresca have something to do with it.
Maresca’s former club are demanding compensation, with lawyers currently involved. So, to avoid any further complications, City may have ended their pursuit of Fernandez.
Could City look at other midfielders?
With Fernandez out of the picture, it is almost certain that Director of Football Hugo Viana will pivot to Newcastle’s Sandro Tonali if a move for Anderson stalls.
Journalist Fabrizio Romano claims the Manchester club are willing to go “all in” to recruit the Italian international if other options are not available.
Like Anderson and Fernandez, Tonali is expected to cost in excess of £100m, and Newcastle are in a pretty strong financial position, having recently received £69m from Barcelona for Anthony Gordon.
It seems that no matter which midfield target Viana goes after this summer, it will end up being a very expensive purchase.
Want more news on Man City? Add Man City News as a preferred source on Google