Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has reportedly made Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez his top choice to replace the outgoing Rodri. The Italian coach, who worked closely with the Argentina international during his time at Stamford Bridge, reportedly feels the 2022 World Cup winner is the perfect fit to hold together City's midfield.

Maresca targets Fernandez for reunion

Maresca has identified Fernandez as the ‘dream’ option to take over from Rodri at the Etihad Stadium. As per reports from Gianluca Di Marzio, Maresca believes the Argentine midfielder has the exact tactical qualities needed to operate at the base of his system.

Even so, completing such a transfer will not be easy. Chelsea still regard the 25-year-old as a key figure in their long-term plans, and he remains under contract until the summer of 2032. The Blues are likely to ask for a huge fee before even thinking about selling one of their most valuable players, particularly to a direct Premier League rival.

Rodri nears Etihad exit as Barcelona lead race

City’s push to find a new midfield leader has gathered pace because of the growing uncertainty around Rodri’s future. The Spain international is now in the final year of his contract, and interest from top La Liga clubs has intensified sharply. Although Real Madrid had long been seen as the frontrunners, Barcelona have now moved ahead in the race to sign him after making progress in talks with the player’s representatives.

Rodri has reportedly made it clear that he would prefer a move to Catalonia rather than joining Jose Mourinho’s project at the Bernabeu. The transfer is also being driven by Hansi Flick’s demand for a world-class holding midfielder, especially with Frenkie de Jong potentially set for time out because of surgery.

Fernandez camp explores potential summer move

Further adding to the speculation, the Chelsea midfielder’s representatives have openly spoken about the prospect of a transfer. Speaking at an AFA event in Miami last month, agent Javier Pastore commented on the increasing rumours around his client. “He’s only thinking about that [World Cup], and we’re looking at possibilities for him to leave Chelsea, but there’s nothing concrete or confirmed with any club,” Pastore said.

Bouaddi remains a secondary alternative for City

Although Fernandez is the ‘dream’ target, City are also monitoring Lille teenager Ayyoub Bouaddi. The 18-year-old has emerged as another high-upside option for the club, with plans already said to be in place to try and bring him in.

Despite Bouaddi’s evident ability, there are concerns within the City coaching staff over whether someone of his age could immediately take on the task of replacing an experienced player like Rodri. Maresca is understood to favour a more seasoned option who can move straight into the starting XI without needing a long settling-in period.