Manchester City Refuse to Give Up on Enzo Fernández Despite Missing Transfer Deadline

Manchester City have reportedly refused to abandon their interest in Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernández despite failing to meet Chelsea's 5pm deadline for a formal bid.

Chelsea had set a £120 million valuation and gave interested clubs until Friday evening to make an offer. City did not submit a bid before the deadline, with Chelsea subsequently expecting Fernández to remain at Stamford Bridge for the 2026/27 season.

However, the transfer saga may not be completely over.

City Still Interested in Fernández

Manchester City remain admirers of the Argentina international, particularly with new manager Enzo Maresca understood to be a major admirer of the midfielder.

Maresca worked with Fernández during his time as Chelsea manager, giving him a strong understanding of what the 25-year-old could bring to City's midfield.

Fernández's technical quality, energy and ability to contribute in both midfield and attack make him an attractive option for City.

Why the Deadline Was Missed

Chelsea's deadline passed without a formal offer from Manchester City.

The Blues had made it clear that they wanted their £120m valuation met, but City were unwilling to commit to the deal before the cut-off.

The decision does not necessarily mean City have completely ended their pursuit, however.

According to Sky Sports, there is still no guarantee that City will not make an approach before the transfer window closes on September 1.

Rodri Could Hold the Key

The biggest factor could be Rodri's future.

Barcelona have continued to pursue the Manchester City midfielder, with previous offers rejected by the Premier League club.

If Barcelona eventually make an offer that City consider acceptable, Fernández could become a more realistic target as City look for another elite midfielder.

That would make the final weeks of the transfer window particularly interesting.

Chelsea Want Fernández to Stay

Chelsea's current position is clear: they expect Fernández to remain at the club.

The midfielder has a long-term contract and remains an important part of the squad, meaning Chelsea have little reason to sell unless their valuation is met.

Recent reports indicate that the club is now preparing for Fernández to stay for the upcoming campaign.

A Complicated Transfer Situation

City's pursuit is also complicated by the amount they have already spent this summer.

The club have invested heavily in their midfield, including the signing of Elliot Anderson, while they are also negotiating with Lille for highly rated youngster Ayyoub Bouaddi.

Spending another £120m on Fernández would therefore represent a major financial commitment.

Sevens Sports Arena Analysis

The Enzo Fernández transfer saga may have entered a new phase rather than reaching a definitive conclusion.

Chelsea's deadline has passed, and the Blues expect their midfielder to stay. However, City's continued interest means the story could remain alive until the transfer window closes.

Much could depend on Rodri's situation.

If the Spanish midfielder remains at City, a move for Fernández could become difficult to justify. But if Barcelona eventually secure his departure, City may once again explore a deal for the Chelsea star.

For now, Fernández remains a Chelsea player.

But Manchester City's failure to meet the deadline may not necessarily mean they have given up.