Enzo Fernandez completes record-equalling move from Chelsea to Manchester City

Manchester City have completed the signing of Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez from Chelsea for £125 million ($169m), matching the British transfer record on a dramatic deadline day.

The 25-year-old, who represented Argentina at the 2026 World Cup, had been expected to leave Stamford Bridge, but the transfer remained uncertain until the final moments of the European summer window, which closed at 10pm GMT on Tuesday.

City confirmed the move shortly before the deadline, with the fee equalling the amount Liverpool paid Newcastle United for striker Alexander Isak last summer.

Although an agreement between Chelsea and City appeared to have been reached several hours earlier, concerns grew as the deadline approached over whether Fernandez would have enough time to complete his medical and finalise the transfer.

Fernandez had already appeared to say goodbye to Chelsea supporters on Instagram.

In an emotional message, the midfielder said his departure had come during a difficult period and reflected on his three years with the London club.

He described Chelsea's Cobham training ground and Stamford Bridge as home for himself and his family, while thanking supporters for sharing both difficult moments and major successes.

Fernandez joined Chelsea from Benfica in 2023 for a then British-record £106 million ($143.2m). During his time at the club, he helped Chelsea win the UEFA Conference League and the expanded FIFA Club World Cup in 2025.

His relationship with Chelsea had become increasingly strained after he indicated an interest in moving to Real Madrid last season. He was subsequently left out of the squad for two matches.

The move to Manchester City reunites Fernandez with manager Enzo Maresca, who previously worked with the midfielder at Chelsea before succeeding Pep Guardiola at the Etihad Stadium.

Maresca was reportedly a major influence behind City's decision to pursue Fernandez as the club reshaped its midfield following Rodri's transfer to Barcelona and the departures of Bernardo Silva, Nico Gonzalez and Tijjani Reijnders.

Fernandez is expected to become part of a new-look central midfield alongside England international Elliot Anderson and Morocco's Ayyoub Bouaddi.

City's spending on their revamped midfield has now surpassed £300 million ($405.4m).

Fernandez said he was excited to join a club he regarded as one of the best-run teams in world football.

He added that he wanted to learn from his new teammates, improve his game and contribute to a club built around sustained success.

City director of football Hugo Viana praised Fernandez's technical ability, work ethic and determination, pointing to his experience of playing in two World Cup finals and winning major trophies in several countries at the age of just 25.

Fernandez scored twice during Argentina's run to the 2026 World Cup final, including a spectacular goal against England in the semi-final.

However, his tournament ended in disappointment after he was sent off during the final, where Argentina suffered a 1-0 defeat and missed the chance to retain their world title.

Manchester City will now hope Fernandez can provide further creativity, energy and goals as they begin a new era in midfield.