As the summer transfer window approaches its conclusion, Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has clarified his club's position on a potential move for Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernández. Chelsea reportedly established a 5:00 p.m. Friday deadline for interested parties to meet their valuation of the player, which is estimated at £120 million. Maresca, who previously worked with Fernández during his time at Stamford Bridge, has publicly stated that Manchester City will not be meeting this deadline.

This development comes as Maresca prepares for his first major match in charge of Manchester City, the Community Shield against Arsenal in Cardiff. The manager acknowledged that his squad remains a work in progress and that he expects a busy period before the window closes. While the pursuit of Fernández appears to be stalling due to the financial demands and the imposed timeline, City is reportedly making progress on other fronts. Specifically, the club is closing in on a deal for 18-year-old Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi. The situation highlights the differing priorities between the two clubs as they navigate the final days of the transfer market, with Chelsea attempting to set firm parameters for player sales while City pursues alternative recruitment targets.