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Chelsea believe significant progress made in Enzo Fernandez negotiations.
According to reports, Chelsea believes they have made substantial progress in their discussions with Benfica regarding midfielder Enzo Fernandez.
Earlier in the transfer season, the Blues made an attempt to sign Fernandez, but their pursuit infuriated Benfica, whose manager Roger Schmidt called Chelsea’s actions “disrespectful” before announcing that the 22-year-old would only be transferred if his €120 million release clause is activated.
On Sunday, Chelsea had reopened negotiations with Benfica, the team that won the World Cup’s Young Player of the Tournament award, and the Blues were ready to improve their first offer.
Chelsea are still exploring a deal which would allow them to pay in instalments, and privately, Benfica are understood to be prepared to accept a structured deal as long as it includes a significant up-front payment.
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The Blues have stated a willingness to spend over €120 million in a structured transaction during the most recent round of negotiations, which are reportedly being headed by Chelsea co-owner Behdad Eghbali, although discussions regarding how that sum would be split are still ongoing.
The final decision on a sale will be left to Benfica president Rui Costa.
Fernandez has expressed his willingness to join Chelsea this month, as he did during the first round of discussions, and the London club does not foresee any issues on the personal front considering their earlier window communications with the midfielder’s agency.
Chelsea also remain interested in Brighton midfielder Moises Caicedo, who has publicly asked to leave the club this month.
The Ecuadorian international is not available for transfer this month, as the Seagulls have informed all interested parties. The Seagulls have already rejected two offers from Arsenal, the most recent of which was around £65 million plus $5 million in add-ons.