Todd Boehly has already started planning a future without Enzo Fernandez as Chelsea struggle to reach an agreement with Benfica. The 22-year-old has been heavily linked with a move to Stamford Bridge this month as Graham Potter looks to bolster his midfield.
football.london understands that the Blues have held extensive talks with the Portuguese giants, with Fernandez identified as the club's primary target. It's said that Chelsea submitted a bid in excess of the £105million release clause in his contract.
But, the west Londoners have proposed that the fee would be spread out over instalments rather than being paid in full — due to the amortisation of transfers Chelsea are more able to meet Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations while spending big. Fernandez is keen to join and it's understood that he's informed Benfica he wants to leave.
