Chelsea are moving behind the scenes to secure a suitable replacement for Enzo Fernandez, with the expectation being that he moves to Manchester City.
Fernandez has been insistent to leave Stamford Bridge this summer, with the Blues setting a deadline today for any club to meet their valuation.
This has given Chelsea enough time to sign a replacement, with it clear that they need a starting-calibre player to feature alongside Moises Caicedo.
Who’s your DREAM Enzo Fernandez replacement if the Argentine leaves Chelsea? 🤩
We want to know who and WHY?
Chelsea have positive movement on Adam Wharton as Enzo Fernandez replacement
As per Simon Phillips, there is an expectation that Chelsea and City will agree a fee for Fernandez, and the Blues have developed their interest in Adam Wharton as his replacement.
He said via his Substack: “As reported last night, there’s an expectation that a fee will be agreed between Man City and Chelsea for Enzo Fernandez, and that remains the case.
“However, source understands there’s some hold up on personal terms, although I can’t see it being a big issue as he is desperate to leave and really wants this move. Likely just some figures to tie up.
“On Adam Wharton, it’s developing slightly. Chelsea were planning face to face director talks with Palace for yesterday but that’s been postponed until today or tomorrow. However, source suggested Wharton to Chelsea has had a bit more positive movement in the last hours. But even still, agreeing on a fee could be tough.
“Palace not keen to sell but acknowledging it could be tough to keep him at the right price. Discussions have continued indirectly with Palace regarding Wharton, Axel Disasi, and Josh Acheampong.”
What system will Xabi Alonso use the most? Where will the likes of Marco Palestra, Reece James, Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers all fit?
Wharton signing will be tough for Chelsea this summer
The closer we get to the start of the season, clubs will not want to part ways with their key players at this stage of the window, making negotiations more difficult for someone like Wharton.
Xabi Alonso will want an idea of the squad he is working with for the new season though, and will not want to see his side weaker than it was last season.
The addition of Wharton will not replicate the amount of goals which the Argentine provided. The Palace man scored his first Premier League goal last season.
However, his ability in possession is up there with the very best in England, and would help get the ball to the likes of Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers far quicker.
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