The Perfect Rodri Replacement?: Enzo Maresca encourages Manchester City's push for Chelsea's superstar this summer

Enzo Maresca has identified his former player as the ideal replacement for Rodri. (Image credits – CommonsWikipedia, License Details) 

Enzo Fernandez has found himself linked to one of the biggest clubs in England right now after previously being linked to Real Madrid.

The Chelsea midfielder is linked to a move to rivals Manchester City, with Enzo Maresca considering the Argentine as one of the most important targets to replace Rodri in the midfield.

However, despite the interest, there hasn't been any formal approach from the Manchester giants yet. Chelsea have slapped a £120 million price tag on Enzo Fernandez if any club seeks his services.

The 25-year-old arrived at Chelsea from Benfica in 2023 for a British record fee of £107 million, signing a contract till 2031. He has developed into one of the most important players for Chelsea and also won the UEFA Conference League and FIFA Club World Cup under Enzo Maresca’s management.

However, he's been inconsistent after the Italian left the Blues' job. Fernandez was brilliant during Argentina's successful 2026 World Cup campaign, where he showed why he is one of the most exciting box-to-box midfielders of this generation.

For Manchester City, the need to sign a midfielder of his qualities is obvious. The club is entering another period of transition after a long time where Rodri remains a key figure in midfield.

However, with talks underway with Barcelona over a potential transfer move, Man City need a midfielder for their long-term project. Man City have signed Elliot Anderson, but Maresca is pushing for Enzo Fernandez to sign for Manchester City.

As per reports, the Italian boss has put the Argentine as a priority signing to reshape City's midfield if Rodri departs.

Fernandez’s profile would make sense as well. He's comfortable on the ball, capable of carrying the ball forward and has an eye for progressive passing. He can play in deeper roles as well as up front in advanced roles, which makes him very versatile.

His ability to dictate the tempo of the game while also contributing with crucial goals and assists makes him a perfect fit for a Manchester City side which plays possession-based football.

Fernandez has Premier League experience and has shown his qualities over time. He also had his best time at Chelsea under Maresca, who is now the manager of Man City.

The player-manager duo could reunite, and it would be easier for the 25-year-old to adapt to City's style of football. However, even if Man City decide to pursue him seriously, Chelsea won't make it easy.

The Blues invested an enormous amount of money for the Argentine and regarded him as one of the leaders of their future project. As per reports, they would ask at least £120 million for Fernandez if they were to consider selling him.

Fernandez would be open to a move if Maresca decides to push forward with the signing.

The 25-year-old was also previously linked to Madrid, but his price tag didn't make any deal materialise.

The city does have the financial capacity to pull off a huge deal to sign the Argentine, but spending above £100 over another player after signing Anderson already could be challenging.

At present, City are interested, and Chelsea understand the speculation. If personal terms are agreed with the player, City and Chelsea might settle at a middle ground for the transfer.

The decision ultimately lies with Fernandez, who will decide whether he sees his future at Stamford Bridge or the Etihad.