Chelsea's search for a midfield rework continues in the January transfer window, with the need to strengthen their central ranks for the short-and-long-term. Midfield duo N'Golo Kante and Jorginho are both nearing the end of their deals, with just months remaining, while the age profile isn't set well for the years to come.
Benfica star Enzo Fernandez has been the main target linked with the switch after the 21-year-old's impressive displays for World Champions Argentina in the World Cup. Talks have since stalled though, with the Blues told they either have to trigger the release clause or not sign him at all.
Benfica boss Roger Schmidt hit out at interest over the midfielder, though didn't directly state Chelsea, telling reporters: "There is a club that wants him, they tried to attract him, but they know that they can only have him if they pay the clause. It's disrespectful to all of us, to Benfica, they're driving the player crazy, they pretend they want to pay the clause and then they want to negotiate."
