- Chelsea's previous bid was rejected
- Benfica demand €106m buy-out clause paid up front
Decision rests with Benfica president Rui Costa
WHAT HAPPENED? Benfica's World Cup-winning midfielder Enzo Fernandez is one of the hottest properties in world football right now. Chelsea emerged as the frontrunners to sign the 22-year-old at the start of the January transfer window, only to see Benfica knock back their advances. However, the Blues have not given up hope, with TyC Sports reporting that a fresh bid of €100m plus a Chelsea player of Benfica's choice is on the table.
THE BIGGER PICTURE: The ball is in Benfica's court right now. They're under no pressure to sell, but the improved offer reportedly gives president Rui Costa the chance to acquire a Chelsea player of his choice, which may be tempting.
AND WHAT'S MORE: Fernandez is not pushing for a move, and will happily wait until Benfica and Chelsea reach an agreement. Whether that happens in this window remains to be seen.
IN THREE PHOTOS:
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WHAT NEXT FOR ENZO FERNANDEZ? Chelsea are running out of time to seal a deal for Fernandez, who is due back in Primeira Liga action for Benfica against Arouca on Tuesday.