Enzo Fernandez’s family have reportedly arrived in London as Manchester City continue negotiations with Chelsea over a possible deadline-day transfer for the midfielder.
The Argentina international is understood to favour a move to the Etihad Stadium, but significant differences remain between the clubs over his valuation with the transfer window closing at 11pm on Tuesday.
Manchester City are now engaged in direct talks with Chelsea as they attempt to complete a major late move for the 2022 World Cup winner.
City and Chelsea remain apart
Chelsea had previously made Fernandez available for around £120 million, but that valuation has reportedly increased after the initial deadline for City to meet the asking price passed without an agreement.
The Blues could now demand as much as £140m for the midfielder, potentially making Fernandez the most expensive British transfer if a deal is completed.
City are yet to meet Chelsea’s demands, and there is growing uncertainty over whether the two clubs can reach an agreement before the deadline.
Chelsea have already identified possible replacements should Fernandez leave, with Monaco midfielder Lamine Camara and Roma’s Manu Kone among their options.
Fernandez has been at the centre of speculation throughout the closing stages of the window and was left out of Chelsea’s squad for their Carabao Cup victory over Luton Town.
City turn to Ndiaye after Gakpo snub
City are also pushing to sign Everton winger Iliman Ndiaye after Liverpool rejected their proposal for Cody Gakpo.
The Premier League champions reportedly offered £75m up front plus £5m in add-ons for Gakpo, but Liverpool refused to sanction the Dutchman’s departure after failing to secure a replacement.
That decision prompted City to revive their interest in Ndiaye, who is also wanted by Tottenham.
The move has complicated Spurs’ plans after they had expected the Senegal international to undergo a medical.
Tottenham are now considering alternatives, including a potential loan move for Chelsea winger Mykhailo Mudryk.
Spurs manager Roberto De Zerbi previously worked with Mudryk at Shakhtar Donetsk and has publicly backed the Ukrainian during his recent difficulties.
With both Fernandez and Ndiaye deals still unresolved, City face a frantic final few hours as they attempt to strengthen their squad before the deadline.
