Manchester City is still keen on securing the signature of Chelsea's Enzo Fernandez, as reported by The Athletic.
However, the main obstacle to this potential deal is the staggering £120 million price tag set by the Blues.
Chelsea are expecting a final response from City by 5:00 PM on Friday. After this deadline, the option of selling the player to the Citizens will no longer be considered.
City is determined to support their manager with significant signings this summer, and Fernandez is among their top targets.
That said, £120 million is a hefty sum, and the Premier League champions are expected to attempt to persuade Chelsea to lower their demands.
The clubs are already in communication regarding the potential transfer, with City looking to gauge how firm Chelsea's position is behind closed doors.
Other Champions League clubs are also keeping a close eye on the 25-year-old midfielder, but few can match the financial outlay required. So far, Fernandez has not publicly shown any desire to leave the London club.
Fernandez remains a key target for the Citizens in midfield. If an agreement cannot be reached, manager Enzo Maresca may have to consider alternative options.
