Enzo Fernandez has been omitted from Benfica's squad for tonight's Liga NOS trip to Arouca as Chelsea continue their efforts to complete a deal worth at least £105million.
The World Cup winner has been on the Blues' radar throughout the January transfer window as Todd Boehly looks to bolster Graham Potter's midfield. They failed in securing a deal earlier in the window but football.london understands that Fernandez remains the priority and extensive talks have been held with Benfica.
It's understood that Chelsea are willing to conclude a deal to make the midfielder the club's record signing and the most expensive player in Premier League history. Benfica have demanded a £105million figure throughout the month, holding out for the player's release clause.
READ MORE: Graham Potter makes key Chelsea deadline day decision amid Fernandez and Ziyech transfer latest
As work continues in Lisbon in securing Fernandez's services, Jorginho is edging closer to a switch to London rivals Arsenal. football.london understands that the Gunners have agreed a £12m deal to sign the Italian on an initial 18-month contract - leaving a vacant space in Potter's midfield.
Now, with less than 12 hours remaining of the January transfer window, Chelsea have received a boost in their pursuit of Fernandez with reports that he has been left out of Roger Schmidt's side for their league fixture against Arouca this evening.
After missing the 1-0 victory over Portimonense earlier in the month after failing to report to training, the 22-year-old has appeared in all three league games and assisted twice in the 3-0 win over Santa Clara.
However, according to journalist Duncan Castles, Fernandez will not be in action this evening for Benfica after missing training on Monday. It's claimed the midfielder has asked the Portuguese club to accept Chelsea's proposal.
The decision allows extra time for the two parties to come to an agreement before tonight's 11pm deadline. The Blues have already made seven signings this month, totalling Boehly's spending close to £500million.
READ NEXT:
Enzo Fernandez deal, Mudryk starts: Potter's dream Chelsea XI after £105m deadline day transfer
Fernandez signs, Gusto plan - Chelsea's best and worst case transfer deadline day scenarios
Chelsea set Enzo Fernandez priority amid deadline day obstacle to continue Todd Boehly rebuild
'He's coming!' - Chelsea fans sent into transfer frenzy after tracking Enzo Fernandez flight
Chelsea news and transfers LIVE: All the latest news, rumours and gossip from Stamford Bridge
