Chelsea have begun exploring alternatives to Enzo Fernandez as negotiations with Benfica continue to stall over a £105million transfer. The Argentine World Cup winner has been strongly linked with a move to west London this month but, with Todd Boehly struggling to conclude a deal, other targets may be firmed out.
football.london understands that the Blues made a bid in excess of the £105m release clause in Fernandez's contract, with intense talks with Benfica said to be held over the past few days. However, the structure of the deal has become a problematic issue for Chelsea, with the Portuguese outfit keen to inherit the fee in full rather than in instalments.
The player has made his intentions clear of sealing a move to Stamford Bridge following Chelsea's re-emerged interest. Whilst talks continue in Lisbon, Fernandez has been omitted from Roger Schmit's side for this evening's Liga NOS trip to Arouca.
