Enzo Fernandez’s Chelsea transfer saga has taken another major turn after Fabrizio Romano claimed Manchester City are preparing to return for the midfielder next week.
Chelsea appeared to have drawn a line under the situation on Friday after City failed to meet the club’s reported £120million deadline. However, Romano now expects fresh contact as the Premier League rivals look for a possible route to an agreement.
Speaking on the Here We Go Podcast, Romano said:
“I think next week there will be new contacts, and I think Man City will try again to find a way to sign Enzo Fernandez.”
The update significantly reopens a story which appeared to be cooling only days ago.
🚨 @FabrizioRomano:
"I think next week there will be new contacts, and I think Man City will try again to find a way to sign Enzo Fernandez."
(@podcastherewego) #CFC pic.twitter.com/7HTHBa5qHm
— Chelsea Dodgers (@TheBlueDodger) August 16, 2026
Enzo Fernandez Chelsea transfer saga takes fresh twist
Chelsea had reportedly informed interested clubs that a deal needed to be agreed by 5pm on Friday, with the Blues valuing Fernandez at around £120m.
Manchester City did not meet those conditions and Chelsea subsequently expected the Argentina international to remain at Stamford Bridge. The Guardian reported that City’s failure to act before the deadline had made a move considerably less likely.
Romano’s latest information suggests City are not ready to walk away.
ReadChelsea has previously examined how Manchester City’s midfield business could shape Fernandez’s future, with Rodri’s situation among the factors capable of changing the picture.
The Blues have held a strong negotiating position throughout the summer. Fernandez remains tied to a long-term contract and Chelsea’s £120m valuation has repeatedly represented a major obstacle for interested clubs.
Xabi Alonso has also publicly indicated that he wants the midfielder to remain part of his plans.
That leaves City needing to find a proposal capable of changing Chelsea’s stance after already allowing the club’s original deadline to expire.
Friday appeared to provide clarity over Fernandez’s future. Romano’s latest update suggests Chelsea may instead face another decisive week before the transfer window closes.
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