The Blues are keen to add a new midfielder to their ranks this winter.
Chelsea have reportedly informed Benfica of their intention to pay Enzo Fernandez’s release clause.
The 21-year-old played a crucial role in Argentina’s midfield as they claimed their third World Cup trophy in Qatar. His performances attracted interest from a number of elite sides, including Liverpool, Newcastle, and Manchester United.
However, Chelsea are keen to add Fernandez to their ranks by paying his release clause.
According to Football.London, the Benfica star will join the Blues on a £105m deal.
Such a move would break Chelsea’s transfer record, which was set when they signed Romelu Lukaku from Inter for £97.5m.
The Blues hope to bolster their midfield line as they aim to replace the likes of Jorginho and N’Golo Kante. Fernandez has reportedly emerged as their main transfer target for the January transfer window.
On Thursday, Benfica dismissed claims that Chelsea have already paid Fernandez’s release clause. However, Guardian reports that they are in direct negotiations with the Premier League giants.
Having already signed David Datro Fofana from Molde, Chelsea are keen to continue their first transfer window under Graham Potter by signing Fernandez and Monaco’s Benoît Badiashile.
Badiashile is a highly-rated defender, who is close to joining Chelsea on a €35m deal.
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