Chelsea's 5pm Friday deadline for Manchester City to bid for midfielder Enzo Fernandez has passed without an offer, making it likely he will remain at Stamford Bridge for the 2026/27 season. The verbal terms previously offered to Fernandez's representatives are now off the table.

Despite City's interest, fueled by manager Enzo Maresca's past relationship with the player, a transfer is contingent on potential developments with Rodri. If Barcelona were to make an acceptable offer for Rodri, City might then pursue Fernandez, though Chelsea insists they will not sell him this window or the next.

Chelsea imposed the deadline to avoid distractions, having signed Fernandez for approximately £107m in the 2023 winter window. Relations between the clubs are strained following Maresca's departure from Chelsea. Meanwhile, City are also in talks with Lille for midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi.