Chelsea are trying to revive their big-money move for Benfica midfielder Enzo Fernandez, talkSPORT understands.
The Premier League side have turned their attentions back to Fernandez after Brighton refused to sell Moises Caicedo, with Arsenal also keen on the 21-year-old.
With Fernandez currently holding a £105million release clause in his deal, it means 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 the star isn’t thinking about a move.
Asked if he was confident of Fernandez staying 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.
It is thought the bosses have scheduled another round of talks to sign him on Monday, with president Rui Costa the main obstacle to cross.
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.
The transfer window closes at 11pm GMT on Tuesday night.
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