Enzo Fernandez would agree a move to Chelsea from Benfica should the clubs be able to reach an agreement over a transfer fee, Fabrizio Romano reports.
The Argentina international midfielder has emerged as one of the stars of the January transfer window thanks to his strong displays at the World Cup, where he helped his side to a famous victory over France in the final.
Fernandez moved to Benfica for a little over €10 million in the summer but now the Portuguese club are demanding that his €120m minimum fee release clause be matched for a deal to be concluded.
MORE: How Chelsea will line up with Enzo Fernandez
Romano reports that Enzo has already given his agreement over a move to Chelsea – but that does not mean a transfer is inevitable.
The Blues, though, are said to be in “direct talks” with Benfica over a deal but they are not keen on paying the release clause that would trigger a transfer. Instead, they are looking to instead offer that is described as a “huge fee”.
MORE: From David Luiz to Enzo Fernandez: The Benfica stars at Chelsea
Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez alternatives
Meanwhile, alternatives continue to be sought by the Stamford Bridge side.
Ben Jacobs reports that Brighton midfielder Moises Caicedo remains a player of interest to Chelsea, which comes as little surprise given that manager Graham Potter is a big fan following his spell at the Seagulls.
Furthermore, Mundo Deportivo in Spain suggests that Chelsea along with Manchester United are following Martin Zubimendi, who is available for €60 million via his release clause at Real Sociedad.
Chelsea are also continually linked with West Ham midfielder Declan Rice, although Hammers boss David Moyes has scotched rumours that the England midfielder could leave in January.
Similarly, the Blues are monitoring Jude Bellingham, with the Dortmund midfielder liable to be subject to huge transfer interest in the summer.
Chelsea may not limit themselves to just one central midfielder, with N’Golo Kante’s contract running out and Jorginho also the wrong side of 30.