Manchester City’s interest in Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez has been no secret, despite not submitting a bid for the Argentine before the Blues’ Friday deadline.
Chelsea told interested parties they had until 17:00 BST on Friday to make an offer for the 25-year-old – with them wanting £120m for his signature.
But they are not thought to have received any bids and Xabi Alonso’s side now hope to keep their vice-captain.
However, it is understood City do not see the potential transfer as being over and still think Chelsea want to do a deal.
Manchester City boss Maresca is clearly a fan of Fernandez, having made him Chelsea captain when Reece James was injured, and he played him in 79 of his 92 games in charge at Stamford Bridge.
Fernandez is, by nature, a defensive midfielder but Maresca played him further forward many times last season when Cole Palmer was injured, leading to him scoring a career-best 15 goals.
That means there are several places Fernandez could fit into Maresca’s City team – if a deal does happen.
The Abu Dhabi-owned club also signed England midfielder Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest this summer.
So that would give Maresca some flexibility when naming a team – and means Anderson and Fernandez would be capable of playing together.
Whether a deal can be agreed or if Chelsea will stick to their guns remains to be seen.
Another potential midfield signing is Bournemouth’s Alex Scott.
City have explored a potential move for England international Scott this summer.
The 22-year-old has rejected contract offers from the Cherries amid interest from other Premier League clubs, though his current deal does not expire until 2028 and Bournemouth have expressed their desire to keep him.
Bournemouth rejected a £64m bid from Chelsea for the midfielder last month and made it clear any further approaches would not be welcomed. Advances from Arsenal have also been knocked back.
Scott’s energy and ball-carrying ability suit Maresca’s preferred style of play – with a heavy emphasis on possession – while his passes into the box and ability to win duels make him an appealing option.
Liverpool’s Alexis Mac Allister also interests Maresca.
The Argentine is into the final two years of his contract at Anfield and has been a consistent presence in the Reds’ midfield during his time there, though he struggled for form during a troublesome 2025-26 season.
As a Premier League winner, Mac Allister would bring top-flight experience and be a ready-made candidate to slot into City’s midfield.
