A source has told Sky Sports that Chelsea’s attempt to sign Enzo Fernandez is being held up due to the amount paid up-front to Benfica.
Negotiations have been extremely tough between the two clubs ahead of what could potentially be a British transfer record deal.
The Blues have been interested for the entirety of the January transfer window in a deal for the young player of the tournament from the last World Cup.
Despite their intrigue, they have been yet to finalise an agreement.
Sky have claimed that they have been told this is down to the clubs not agreeing on a deal is how much is paid per year.
He said: “Chelsea and Benfica still can’t agree payment structure for Enzo Fernandez and a deal expected to be worth £105m – the price of the midfielder’s release clause.
“A source has told Sky Sports News that Chelsea want to pay six instalments over five years, while Benfica want three payments in two years.
“Chelsea’s reply was that, to pay in two calendar years, they want to pay less of a fee up-front.
“Benfica have so far not answered to this offer, which was received at 6.15pm. This is why Fernandez did not travel to England for a medical on Monday. It is also why he has also been doing the medical in Portugal.”
It is going to certainly be a nervy few hours for Chelsea fans.