Former Chelsea defender Frank Leboeuf has urged Enzo Fernandez to leave Stamford Bridge amid growing speculation linking the midfielder with a move to Manchester City.
Fernandez has been left out of Chelsea’s squad for recent matches, fuelling further uncertainty over his future at the club as the transfer window approaches its deadline.
Chelsea reportedly value the Argentina international at more than £120 million, while Manchester City are pushing to secure his signature. Recent reports indicate that City have made an offer exceeding £120 million, although Chelsea initially rejected the proposal.
Leboeuf believes Chelsea should allow Fernandez to leave if the player has already decided that he wants a new challenge.
Speaking to ESPN, the former France international said the situation could make it difficult for Fernandez to remain fully committed to Chelsea.
Leboeuf argued that if a player wants to leave, keeping him at the club could affect his ability to perform at his best.
“I think nobody wants Enzo Fernandez to stay. It’s time for him to go,” Leboeuf said, adding that the midfielder had previously indicated his desire to leave.
The comments come as Manchester City continue to pursue Fernandez ahead of the transfer deadline. Chelsea are also reportedly exploring midfield replacements, including Monaco’s Lamine Camara.
Fernandez left out by Xabi Alonso
Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has left Fernandez out of the squad for consecutive matches as uncertainty surrounding his future continues.
Alonso has refused to rule out a departure, saying the club is preparing for different possibilities before the transfer window closes.
The midfielder’s situation has therefore become one of the major transfer stories surrounding Chelsea, with Manchester City reportedly determined to complete the deal.
Chelsea had previously set a £120 million valuation for Fernandez after he indicated that he was open to leaving the club.
Manchester City move
Manchester City are understood to be interested in bringing Fernandez to the Etihad Stadium, with the player reportedly open to the move.
A successful transfer would represent a huge financial deal for Chelsea and could give the Blues significant funds to strengthen their midfield before the window closes.
Chelsea have already been looking at possible replacements, with Monaco midfielder Lamine Camara among the players linked with a move to Stamford Bridge.
For now, Fernandez’s future remains uncertain, but Leboeuf believes the best solution is for Chelsea and the player to part ways if his desire to leave remains unchanged.
The final outcome could be decided before the transfer deadline.
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