Journalst Ben Jacobs has claimed that there are still some key points of difference between Chelsea and Benfica over the signing of Enzo Fernandez.
The Blues are reportedly close to finalising a deal to sign the Argentina midfielder after he impressed greatly at the World Cup.
The 21-year-old picked up the young player of the tournament award after establishing himself as a crucial member of the side who eventually won the tournament.
In an attempt to beat off any interest from fellow elite sides, the Blues have launched a club-record offer to secure his services this month as opposed to at the end of the season.
This has seemingly turned the player’s head, with reports from around the club suggesting that he is solely interested in joining Chelsea right now.
Differences over Fernandez deal
Jacobs has claimed that although there are still a few things for the two parties to sort, the Blues are confident over the signing as they get the sense there is an urgency to complete the deal.
He said: “Chelsea and Benfica held further (and long) talks last night on Enzo Fernandez. Still some key points of difference. Benfica are prepared to sell in a deal spread over multiple instalments, but asked for a bigger first payment.
“Chelsea sticking to their position due to strength of overall offer (way above current market value) and FFP rules. Deal remains close and Chelsea still encouraged because there feels an urgency by all parties to resolve things. But talks needed Wednesday before anything done.”
With current midfielders Jorginho and N’golo Kante yet to commit their future to the club, there is a real possibility that the Blues will be without both of them at the end of the season.
They will need to ensure they replace these with quality players, and they certainly don’t come much better than Fernandez.
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