Enzo Fernandez Finally reacts to Chelsea’s Interest In Signing Him

As Chelsea prepares a new offer for the Argentina star, Enzo Fernandez is said to have informed Chelsea that he won’t try to leave Benfica this month.

Earlier this month, Fernandez was keen to sign with Chelsea, but now he is content to stay at Benfica until the end of the season, according to Portuguese media outlet Record via Metro.

Benfica and Chelsea were unable to reach a deal earlier this month because the Portuguese powerhouses were adamant about not meeting the midfielder’s £106 million release clause.

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However, the 21-year-old was anxious to transfer and reached a personal agreement with the Premier League club.

In addition, the midfielder skipped training in an effort to force the move and returned to Argentina for New Year’s celebrations without the club’s approval.

Chelsea’s attempts infuriated Benfica, with head coach Roger Schmidt saying the Blues had merely “pretended” they could pay the release clause and had actually driven the player “crazy.”

Fernandez had been eager to sign with Chelsea this month, but according to Record, he has since “changed his mindset” and is totally dedicated to ending the season in Portugal.

The international player from Argentina will also get a €2 million loyalty bonus if he stays with the team.

Benfica is certain that they will not sell Fernandez for less than his £106 million release clause, dealing another setback to Chelsea’s aspirations.

Chelsea is believed to have offered to waive the release clause earlier this month but insisted on having the £112 million cost paid in three annual installments.

Hakim Ziyech and two other players on loan were part of Chelsea’s £79 million offer to Benfica.

After making a comeback earlier this month, Fernandez scored in a 2-0 victory in the Portuguese Cup quarterfinal. He celebrated by tapping the club badge and pointing to the ground, making it clear that he intended to stay.

I never questioned his demeanor or his character. He’s a wonderful man who loves playing for Benfica and is at Benfica,” Later, Schmidt said.

Schmidt responded, “I hope so,” when asked if he thought the midfielder will stay with Benfica for the remainder of the year.