Enzo Fernández has asked Benfica to sell him to Chelsea before the end of the January transfer market.
That’s according to transfer journalist Ben Jacobs, who reports that Enzo has “reiterated in forceful terms to both Benfica president Rui Costa and manager Roger Schmidt that he wants to leave.”
Jacobs adds that Benfica’s board is “divided on accepting a structured agreement” and “their public position is ‘termination clause or nothing'”.
Chelsea have been chasing Fernández for much of the January transfer window and came close to signing him earlier in the window. Negotiations broke down but have been revived in recent days.
Earlier on Sunday, it was reported that Chelsea had made a new offer of more than 100 million euros for Enzo Fernandez, with some sources claiming that the Blues have also given Benfica the option to take a player in exchange.
Benfica have stood firm throughout January on their original decision that Enzo’s €120m release clause must be paid in full if Chelsea want to sign him.
But it remains to be seen if Chelsea can force their hand before the transfer window closes on Tuesday, and also if Enzo’s departure request plays a part.
Chelsea are desperate to sign a top-flight central midfielder before the end of the month as they try to salvage what has been a disastrous season on the pitch thus far.
Who is Enzo Fernandez?
Fernández was one of the best midfielders at the 2022 World Cup and played a key role as Argentina won the trophy.
The 21-year-old broke into Argentina’s starting XI during the group stage after scoring a brilliant goal against Mexico.
He then went on to be named Young Player of the Tournament, earning applause around the world.
Enzo Fernandez vs Mexico
Fernández signed for Benfica for €18m and has already proven to be a bargain.
He has scored four goals and provided six assists this season for a Benfica team that is the leader of the Portuguese league. He also topped their Champions League group above PSG, winning at home and away against Juventus.
