Reports have claimed that Chelsea were aware that two Premier League clubs were prepared to spend £100m on Enzo Fernandez in the summer.
According to The Athletic, this is one of the reasons why Chelsea ended up paying the release clause to Benfica, admittedly in instalments that suited them.
The transfer was one that captured so much attention throughout what proved to be a legendary January transfer window.
The Blues used last month as an opportunity to complete a rebuild in the middle of the season, with them looking to address areas that have been notable weaknesses so far.
Goals in particular had been tough to come by for Graham Potter’s side, and a completely new frontline has been brought in an attempt to solve that conundrum.
They looked to put the final touches on with a midfielder, however were met with tough negotiators in Benfica.
Chelsea knew of PL interest in Fernandez
Nevertheless, a deal was eventually reached that saw Chelsea smash the British transfer record.
The fee was higher than the Blues had been hoping to pay, however The Athletic have claimed they made the decision to meet Rui Costa’s demands based on interest elsewhere in the Premier League.
Due to Chelsea’s position in the league, they may have struggled to win the battle for Fernandez’s signature then.
Liverpool were a club who were reportedly interested in a deal to sign the midfielder, as they sit in a similar position to the Blues where additions are desperately needed.
With the money required, it is reasonable to suggest that only Manchester City and Newcastle could join Jurgen Klopp’s side as a fellow interested club.
The Reds have been often touted as the favourite to sign Jude Bellingham, who has been on Todd Boehly’s radar too.
However, it was claimed yesterday that the teenager is not keen on a move to Stamford Bridge due to the erratic transfer strategy the American has brought to Stamford Bridge so far.
Receive a digest of our best Chelsea content each week direct to your mailbox
