Former Manchester City and Barcelona striker Sergio Aguero believes Enzo Fernandez has already proven he can play in the Premier League. football.london understands Chelsea have held fresh talks with Benfica over a move for the Argentina international as they look to secure a £115million deal for the midfielder.
The Blues have shown a willingness to pay Fernandez's £105million release clause with reports suggesting the club are open to paying £10million more in order to structure the payments over a series of separate instalments - opposed to one lump sum. The 21-year-old has already agreed personal terms and is prepared to travel to London to complete the necessities ahead of a move to Stamford Bridge should Benfica accept Chelsea's offer.
Todd Boehly and other members of the board are leading negotiations with Benfica president Rui Costa having changed his plans to hold an internal meeting and make a final decision on Fernandez's future. Chelsea could move on Conor Gallagher to raise funds in their pursuit of the Argentinian midfielder, with Everton having submitted a £45million bid for the Blues' star, football.london understands.
READ MORE: Benfica president Rui Costa changes plans as Chelsea close in on Enzo Fernandez £106m transfer
Fernandez won the Young Player of the Tournament award for his performances at the World Cup, resulting in Chelsea pursuing a deal for the Benfica star. Aguero told Stake.com: "Enzo has proven he can play in the top leagues of the world.
"From my understanding, it'll be a short time until he arrives either to the Premier League or La Liga. We'll have to wait for summer to tell. But it's a safe bet to say he'll be the target of the biggest clubs out there.
"The thing is, the World Cup can be a great display window. You can really tell who are the players that make a difference, and there's obviously a boost to the champions too.
"Maybe we'll see Enzo Fernandez in the Premier League soon. The World Cup's best young player award is nothing to scoff at.
"There are many other players from Argentina that will show their worth soon. Brighton signing Buonanotte, Maximo Perrone arriving to my dear Manchester City... There's a new generation that is adding a lot to the Premier League and in numbers not seen before."
Chelsea will push until the end to sign Fernandez as they hope to avoid a summer transfer window bidding war for the midfielder. Graham Potter has already added seven new players to his squad, although Malo Gusto will not officially become a Blues player until the summer after returning to Lyon on loan until the end of the season.
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