Manchester United look set to fail in their pursuit of Enzo Fernandez after showing interest in the youngster this winter.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea have opened “direct talks” with Benfica for Fernandez and the player has already “said yes” to the Blues.
Chelsea are now in direct talks with Benfica for Enzo Fernández. Chelsea want to offer huge fee instead of paying release clause in one solution 🚨🔵 #CFC
Benfica always asked full €120m clause.
Understand Enzo already said yes to Chelsea.#LFC or #MUFC made no bid, as of now. pic.twitter.com/Kdvz5Eargi— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) December 30, 2022
Chelsea are hoping to pay one large fee, as opposed to meeting his £106 million release clause.
The 21-year-old has also been linked with Liverpool, though their signing of Cody Gakpo will have likely deterred the board from making another significant transfer, especially given Fernandez’s price tag.
Stretty News’ verdict
United yet again have sat back and failed to make any advances in agreeing a deal for the midfielder, however, a striker is the priority in January.
Still, the Argentinian would have been an exceptional addition to the squad. Benfica’s asking price has raised considerably since his performances at the World Cup, after which he was named Young Player of the Tournament.
Hopefully, this is United’s last transfer window under Glazer ownership, and Erik ten Hag can be properly backed next summer.