Manchester City are set to make one of the biggest signings in Premier League history after reaching an agreement with Chelsea for the transfer of Argentine midfielder Enzo Fernandez in a deal worth £125 million.
The fee matches the British transfer record and marks another major statement from City, who have continued an aggressive squad rebuild ahead of the new season.
Fernandez is expected to complete a medical before signing a long-term contract at the Etihad Stadium. Reports indicate that personal terms are not expected to pose any obstacle to the move.
The 25-year-old leaves Chelsea less than four years after arriving in English football in a then-record £107 million move from Benfica. His departure comes after months of speculation over his future, with the midfielder reportedly seeking a move away from Stamford Bridge.
City manager Enzo Maresca is understood to have identified Fernandez as a key addition to his midfield after several departures from the club during the transfer window. The Premier League champions have already seen a number of experienced midfielders leave, creating the need for reinforcements in the centre of the park.
The transfer continues a remarkable summer of spending across the Premier League, with several players commanding fees exceeding £100 million. It is also the second time City have surpassed their own transfer record during the current window.
For Chelsea, the sale represents a significant financial boost as the club continues to reshape its squad. Combined with a series of high-profile departures in recent months, Fernandez’s transfer is expected to push the club’s player-sale revenue for the window beyond previous Premier League records.
The World Cup-winning midfielder is expected to become one of the centrepieces of City’s plans as they prepare for another domestic and European title challenge.
Source: BBC

