Enzo Fernández’s future at Chelsea has become increasingly uncertain after he was left out of the squad against Luton, with Manchester City reportedly preparing a late move and Chelsea now demanding more than £120 million.

Enzo Fernández dropped by Chelsea as Man City prepare blockbuster late transfer move

Manchester City’s pursuit of Enzo Fernández has taken another major step forward after the Chelsea midfielder was surprisingly left out of the squad amid growing speculation over a blockbuster move to the Etihad Stadium.

The Argentina international did not feature in Chelsea’s 2-0 Carabao Cup victory over Luton Town despite previously being expected to be available.

His absence comes at a crucial moment, with Manchester City reportedly preparing to make a late attempt to sign him before the transfer window closes.

Enzo left out of Chelsea squad

One of the biggest developments surrounding the transfer came when Enzo was completely absent from Chelsea’s squad against Luton.

That decision immediately attracted attention because Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso had previously indicated that the midfielder was training normally and could be involved.

However, Enzo was ultimately not selected.

His absence has intensified speculation that Chelsea are now preparing for the possibility of his departure before the deadline.

Man City confident of signing Enzo

Manchester City are reportedly growing increasingly confident that a deal can be reached for the World Cup winner.

City have been monitoring Enzo throughout the final stages of the window and are expected to make a late move if Chelsea show enough willingness to negotiate.

Reports have also suggested that Enzo has informed Chelsea that he would be interested in joining Manchester City.

That would represent a significant boost for City, although no agreement between the clubs has yet been confirmed.

Enzo reportedly wants Etihad move

The player’s position could become one of the most important factors in the negotiations.

Enzo remains under a long-term contract at Stamford Bridge, meaning Chelsea are under no financial pressure to sell him.

However, if the midfielder makes it clear that he wants the move, Manchester City may believe they have a stronger chance of forcing a breakthrough.

The opportunity to reunite with Enzo Maresca is also believed to be attractive to the Argentina international.

Maresca already knows Enzo well

Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca previously worked closely with Fernández during his time at Chelsea.

Enzo became an important figure under Maresca and was given significant responsibility within the squad.

That existing relationship is one of the reasons City’s interest has become particularly serious.

Maresca knows exactly what Enzo can offer in possession, under pressure and as a leader in midfield.

Chelsea could demand more than £120m

Manchester City may still face an enormous financial challenge if they want to complete the transfer.

Chelsea were previously believed to value Enzo at around £120 million.

However, reports now suggest that even that figure may no longer be enough.

The Blues could demand a fee above £120 million after seeing midfielder valuations rise dramatically during the summer window.

Chelsea are in a strong negotiating position because Enzo remains tied to a lengthy contract and is still considered one of the club’s most valuable assets.

City could submit bid within days

The next phase of the transfer could develop very quickly.

Chelsea are reportedly preparing for the possibility that Manchester City will submit an official offer during the final days of the window.

There have been suggestions that a bid could arrive within approximately 48 hours.

City must now decide whether they are prepared to meet Chelsea’s enormous valuation or attempt to negotiate a more complex package including add-ons.

Chelsea already considering replacements

Chelsea are also believed to be assessing potential replacements in case Enzo leaves.

One midfielder linked with the Blues is Bournemouth’s Alex Scott.

Bournemouth do not want to lose the England midfielder, but Chelsea could increase their interest if a major offer arrives for Enzo.

The fact that Chelsea are assessing midfield alternatives does not guarantee Enzo will leave, but it suggests the club are preparing for every possible outcome.

Manchester City rebuilding their midfield

City’s interest in Enzo comes during a major transformation of their midfield.

The club have already made significant changes following the departures of several established players.

New midfielders have arrived, but City are still looking for another elite option capable of controlling matches at the highest level.

Enzo’s passing range, technical quality and ability to dictate possession make him an obvious fit for Maresca’s system.

No official agreement yet

Despite the growing excitement around the transfer, the deal remains far from complete.

Manchester City have not publicly confirmed an accepted offer.

There is currently no confirmed agreement between City and Chelsea, no accepted bid, no officially agreed personal terms and no medical scheduled.

The biggest remaining question is whether City will meet Chelsea’s valuation before the transfer window closes.

Final days could decide Enzo’s future

Enzo Fernández’s situation has now become one of the biggest stories of the final days of the transfer window.

His absence from Chelsea’s latest squad, Manchester City’s growing confidence and reports that the player is interested in the move have all increased expectations that negotiations could accelerate quickly.

Chelsea, however, remain in control and appear determined not to lose one of their biggest stars unless their valuation is met.

For now, the key development is clear. Enzo Fernández has been left out by Chelsea as Manchester City prepare a late push, and a transfer worth more than £120 million could become one of the biggest deals of the summer if the two clubs can reach an agreement.