Chelsea are reportedly closing in on signing Benfica and Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez.
The Blues’ pursuit has been well-documented but the latest information comes from South American journalist Gaston Edul, who claims the Londoners have a ‘contractual agreement’ with the 21-year-old midfielder.
Taking to Twitter on Monday afternoon Edul said: “Enzo Fernández has a contractual agreement with Chelsea. His environment is waiting for Benfica and Chelsea to agree on the payment method.
“The sale will be around 120 million euros. River [Plate] is going to earn close to 30 million euros. It has to be resolved in these hours.”
Fernandez’s sudden rise comes off the back of a stunning World Cup campaign with Argentina which saw the Benfica number 13 not only crowned the tournament’s best young player but also lift the trophy alongside the likes of Lionel Messi.
MORE: “Match made in heaven” – Pundit tips Newcastle to try and sign Spurs star
Even though the South American only joined Benfica last summer after signing a five-year deal, it appears the 21-year-old is on course to secure a blockbuster move to the Premier League just six months later.
Chelsea’s pursuit perhaps comes as little surprise to fans, who have been forced to witness a sharp decline under new manager Graham Potter.
Struggling for results, the Blues undoubtedly need an injection of youth and talent, especially in midfield as the likes of Jorginho and N’Golo Kante continue well into their thirties.
Nevertheless, with the deal to bring Fernandez to Stamford Bridge entering its most crucial period, Chelsea owner Todd Boehly must now find a way to structure his offer so that it suits Benfica, or risk seeing his efforts come up short.