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Man City Eye Enzo Fernandez Despite £86m Bouaddi Signing: Maresca's Midfield Plans

Man City Keep Interest in Enzo Fernandez Even After Bouaddi Deal

Manchester City remain keen on Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez despite securing an £86 million agreement for Lille's young star Ayyoub Bouaddi. Manager Enzo Maresca is working on reshaping the midfield after Rodri's move to Barcelona.

Midfield Overhaul Continues

City have already committed significant funds this summer, spending £116 million on England international Elliot Anderson. Now, they have reached a deal to bring in the highly-rated 18-year-old Bouaddi from Lille, with a fee reported at €95 million (£81.4 million) plus €5 million (£4.28 million) in add-ons.

Despite this major investment, Fernandez remains a target. Maresca is looking to further strengthen his midfield lineup as the transfer window nears its end.

Bouaddi: City’s Latest Young Midfield Talent

  • Age: 18 years old
  • Nationality: Morocco international
  • Appearances: Nearly 100 games for Lille
  • Record: Lille's youngest-ever player debuting at 16 years and 3 days old in a Conference League match (September 2023)
  • Interest: Attracted attention from Arsenal, Manchester United, and Chelsea before City secured his signature
  • Contract: Long-term deal until 2031, with an option for City to extend for another year
  • Transfer significance: Record sale for Lille, surpassing the €80 million Nicolas Pepe transfer to Arsenal in 2019

Fernandez Still on City's Radar

The Argentine midfielder wants to leave Chelsea after missing out on a Real Madrid move earlier this summer. He reportedly hopes to reunite with Enzo Maresca, who previously coached him at Chelsea.

Chelsea's price tag of £120 million stands as a major barrier, with City believing Fernandez’s value is much lower. This disagreement puts City in a tough spot, especially after investing heavily in the squad already.

Midfield Concerns After Bournemouth Win

City’s midfield was tested during their opening Premier League match against Bournemouth. Marcus Tavernier scored first for Bournemouth, but City came back to win 2-1 thanks to late goals from Marc Guehi and Josko Gvardiol.

Though City earned three points, the shaky performance exposed why Maresca wants more reinforcements in the middle of the park following Rodri’s departure.

Whether City will make another big move for Fernandez depends largely on Chelsea’s willingness to lower their asking price.

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