Chelsea have finalised the signing of Enzo Fernandez from Benfica, having submitted the paperwork in time, according to Fabrizio Romano. The London club re-started negotiations on Monday after previous discussions had broken down in early January. After 48 hours of intense discussions between the Chelsea and Benfica boards, the Argentine midfielder is finally on his way to West London.
Chelsea Finalise Transfer of Enzo Fernandez from Benfica
Enzo Fernández, new Chelsea player! All documents are signed between the clubs with Benfica and player side on contract valid until June 2031 ✅🔵🇦🇷 #CFC
Medical tests, done.
Payment in 6 installments — but £40m upfront. Boehly, Eghbalix board did it after mad 24h.
Here we go. pic.twitter.com/0wgbwYqU2c
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 31, 2023
Chelsea Reach Agreement for Deal Worth Total £105m
Enzo Fernandez will sign a contract until June 2031 with Chelsea; an agreement on personal terms had already existed since early January. The total value of the deal reaches £105m, breaking the British transfer record set by Jack Grealish’s £100m move to Manchester City in 2021.
However, Chelsea are not paying the £105m upfront. It will be paid in various instalments, making the deal more financially sustainable. Chelsea and Benfica successfully completed all paperwork before the 12 pm GMT deadline (extended by a deal sheet), having only just agreed the deal.
48 Hours of Crazy Negotiations
According to Matt Law from the Telegraph, Chelsea co-owner Behdad Eghbali refused to take no for an answer during 12 hours of discussions. An agreement was finally reached with an hour of the transfer window remaining. Rui Costa had stood firm by his policy of “release clause or no deal”, but after relentless pushes from Eghbali and Boehly, the former Benfica player succumbed to the pressure and accepted the deal.
Benfica tried until the very end to keep hold of the 22-year-old, but the player insisted on the move.
What Does Enzo Fernandez Bring to Chelsea?
The midfielder starred in Argentina’s World Cup-winning run, starting 5 of 7 games, including the final. He picked up the award for young player of the tournament and scored in Argentina’s 2-0 victory vs Mexico.
The Argentine only signed for Benfica from River Plate in July 2022 but has since become an integral part of Roger Schmidt’s side. His performances in the Champions League garnered attention from Europe’s top clubs, and it’s Chelsea who will next be privy to his services. With Jorginho’s departure confirmed, Fernandez will represent a dynamic, more progressive replacement.
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