Manchester City are reportedly preparing for the possibility of losing Rodri this summer, with the Premier League champions already identifying a potential replacement. The Cityzens have reportedly set their sights on Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez as they plan for life without their midfield anchor.
Rodri’s future has become one of the biggest transfer stories of the summer, with Spanish giants Real Madrid and Barcelona both believed to be interested in the midfielder.
Recent reports suggest that Rodri has made a decision regarding his future and is leaning towards a move to Barcelona. Negotiations between Barcelona and Manchester City are reportedly underway as the Catalan club explores the possibility of bringing the Spanish international back to La Liga.
With uncertainty surrounding Rodri’s future, City are now examining the market for a high-quality successor.
According to Italian transfer journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, Enzo Fernandez has emerged as one of Manchester City’s main targets.
Enzo Fernandez Emerges as City’s Top Target
Manchester City are reportedly serious about bringing Fernandez to the Etihad Stadium.
The midfielder is considered an attractive option because of his technical quality, passing range, tactical intelligence and ability to influence matches from a deeper midfield position.
Fernandez also has an advantage in terms of familiarity with Enzo Maresca, who previously worked with the Argentine midfielder at Chelsea.
Maresca is believed to have a strong appreciation for Fernandez’s abilities and understands how the player can influence the tempo of a game.
The Argentine midfielder was an important figure for Chelsea last season, playing a central role in their midfield. His performances also helped him remain an important member of the Argentina national team during the 2026 World Cup.
For Manchester City, Fernandez could potentially provide the creativity, defensive discipline and ball progression needed to soften the impact of losing Rodri.
Chelsea Have No Intention of Selling Fernandez
Despite City’s interest, completing the deal is expected to be extremely difficult.
Chelsea reportedly consider Fernandez a key part of their long-term project and are not actively looking to sell the midfielder.
The Blues see the Argentine as one of the most important players in their squad, particularly as they prepare for another demanding Premier League campaign.
Xabi Alonso is also believed to have made it clear that he wants Fernandez to remain at Stamford Bridge. The Spanish coach reportedly considers the midfielder an important component of his tactical plans for the upcoming season.
Chelsea’s position means Manchester City could face a major challenge if they decide to make a formal approach.
Chelsea Demand More Than £120 Million
Another significant obstacle for Manchester City is Fernandez’s enormous valuation.
Reports suggest Chelsea would only consider a deal worth more than £120 million for the Argentine midfielder. Such a price tag would make Fernandez one of the most expensive signings in Manchester City’s history.
City are reportedly reluctant to spend such a huge amount on a single player, particularly with the club having to consider other areas of the squad that may require investment.
Chelsea’s high asking price could therefore be enough to discourage City from making an official bid.
Manchester City Have a Major Midfield Decision to Make
The potential departure of Rodri would represent a huge change for Manchester City.
Since joining the club, the Spanish midfielder has developed into one of the most influential players in Pep Guardiola’s system. His ability to control possession, break up opposition attacks and dictate the rhythm of matches has made him extremely difficult to replace.
That is why City are looking for a midfielder capable of immediately taking on significant responsibility.
Enzo Fernandez fits many of the characteristics the club are searching for, but his price and Chelsea’s reluctance to sell could force City to consider other alternatives.
For now, the situation surrounding Rodri remains crucial. If the midfielder completes a move to Barcelona, Manchester City could accelerate their search for a replacement. Fernandez may be high on their shortlist, but convincing Chelsea to sell could prove to be one of the biggest challenges of the summer transfer window.
With Chelsea demanding more than £120 million, Manchester City must now decide whether Fernandez is worth such a substantial investment or whether a more affordable alternative would be a better solution for the post-Rodri era.
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