CHELSEA have reportedly “reopened” transfer talks with Benfica over a potential deal for Enzo Fernandez.
Blues owner Todd Boehly has splashed out over £500m on 16 new players since last summer.
Full-back Malo Gusto, 19, became the latest addition to Graham Potter’s squad this weekend after penning a deal that runs until 2030 following a £31m move from Lyon.
We reported earlier in the week how Boehly is ready to get his chequebook out again to try and secure 21-year-old midfielder Fernandez.
A Chelsea bid worth £112m – £6m more than his £105m release clause – was turned down this month as it was structured to be paid in three £37.3m yearly instalments.
That led many to believe that they had given up on their pursuit of the South American, at least until the summer.
READ MORE ON CHELSEA
But The Telegraph have now reported that the Stamford Bridge side have started negotiations again with Benfica as they are determined to land the Argentina World Cup winner before the deadline closes at 11pm on January 31.
And transfer guru Fabrizio Romano echoed those claims as he offered his own update on the situation.
He tweeted: “Chelsea are back in direct talks with Benfica for Enzo Fernandez.
“They want the player at all costs — Chelsea would be prepared to pay €120m fee.”
Most read in Football
BETTING SPECIAL – BEST FOOTBALL BETTING SITES IN THE UK
However, he added: “Benfica president Rui Costa has still no intention to accept — but Chelsea will insist to get the deal done now.”
Benfica have already issued a statement regarding Fernandez, who appears desperate to move to Stamford Bridge, stating he would not be old.
Fernandez only arrived at Benfica from River Plate last summer and is under contract until 2027.
He played the full game as they secured a 2-0 win at Pacos Ferreira on Thursday.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
