Chelsea could be forced to pay £132million for Enzo Fernandez as Benfica look to warn off admirers by increasing World Cup winner’s release clause

Chelsea may have to stump up £132million to sign Enzo Fernandez as Benfica look for ways to keep their star man.

The Blues made an offer for the Argentina star earlier in the January transfer window but fell short with their offer for the talented midfielder.

With Fernandez currently holding a £105million release clause in his deal, it means that Chelsea could enter discussions with the player himself should they match that figure.

However according to Portuguese outlet Record, Benfica are considering raising that release clause to £132million by offering the player a new contract.

Benfica head coach Roger Schmidt was quizzed on Fernandez’s future, saying that the star isn’t thinking about a move.

Asked he was confident that Fernandez would stay with Benfica Schmidt said: “Yes. When you see Enzo playing for Benfica you see a very happy player, in great shape.

“He’s not thinking about anything else. I’m not expecting to lose any of our regulars, and that’s why I see very focused players and I hope this stays that way.”

That won’t stop Chelsea from trying to secure his signature before the close of the January transfer window though.

The Blues have already signed seven players so far this month with Benoit Badiashile, Andrey Santos, David Datro Fofana, Joao Felix, Noni Madueke and Malo Gusto already moving to west London.

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