The Blues have reignited their interest in the Argentina hero and are pushing hard to strike a deal before the transfer window slams shut – but why?
Chelsea are back in for Benfica's Enzo Fernandez having failed with a pursuit of the Argentine at the beginning of January, but this time they look much more likely to land the World Cup's breakout star.
The 22-year-old shone for La Albiceleste as they were crowned world champions in Qatar and has been the talk of the town ever since. Chelsea signalled their intent earlier on in January with a handful of failed bids before stepping away from the deal, but have since returned and are optimistic about getting it over the line with their latest bid.
Having already splashed the cash to steal Mykhailo Mudryk from Arsenal's grasp, while also strengthening by signing Joao Felix, Benoit Badiashile, Malo Gusto and several others, Chelsea are proving they will go to any stretch to craft the ultimate squad this month.
So, why have they made the decision to come back in for Fernandez with such little time remaining before the window closes? GOAL takes a look.
GettyA loophole being closed up
Chelsea's rampant spending spree wasn't the only thing catching the eyes of football fans this month. As well as signing anyone in their line of sight, the Blues made headlines for the unusually long contracts they were handing out.
Mudryk signed an eight-and-a-half year deal, while Badiashile penned a seven-and-a-half year contract. Newest recruit Gusto has also signed through to 2030.
They began issuing such lengthy deals as a way to better balance the books and allow them to continue spending. Chelsea have been able to spread the cost of transfers over a significantly longer period of time in order to comply with Financial Fair Play, but their crafty loophole has already been cracked down on.
UEFA have since decided to enforce a five-year contract limit that stops clubs from doing just that. It makes sense, then, that Chelsea try to get a deal for Fernandez over the line now before that ruling comes into action, so they can better finance the mega transfer fee he will command.
AdvertisementGettyJorginho's impending departure
Time is inevitable, and unfortunately for Jorginho, it's catching up to him fast.
Since placing third in the Ballon d'Or rankings in 2021, the Italian midfielder has been unable to re-capture any of the form that earned him such acclaim.
Chelsea's midfield has been a serious weak point this season, with ageing legs proving problematic. The Blues cannot afford a repeat of their struggles next season, and Graham Potter needs reinforcements to get a new era properly underway.
Getting Fernandez over the line this month gives the manager some much-needed options for an injury-hit midfield, and gets the ball in motion ahead of a summer clearout.
Getty ImagesFernandez wants the move
Since Chelsea made their interest known, Fernandez wasn't shy in making his intentions clear; Stamford Bridge was his priority.
He missed training at the beginning of the month after Chelsea had bid for him in an attempt to speed up a potential move, and is reported to have had personal terms agreed for weeks – despite a public show of loyalty to Benfica.
With the player so keen, it makes sense for Chelsea to push now and get it done while they hold a stronger negotiating position and Benfica hold a weaker one.
GettyMounting interest in Conor Gallagher
Not only would Gallagher's potential departure leave Chelsea even lighter in midfield, it would also line their pockets even more.
Everton have submitted a bid worth £45 million ($55m) in total for the English midfielder, who has only managed to impress in spells since returning from his breakout loan at Crystal Palace last season. He hasn't set the world alight under Potter and moving him on could be key to help rebuild the squad and in supporting one final push for Fernandez.
The money recouped from his sale would seriously help the Blues at the negotiating table, and the upgrade would be a huge one.