Chelsea 'still hopeful of pushing through Enzo Fernandez deal this month'

Chelsea have reportedly not given up their pursuit of Benfica midfielder Enzo Fernandez.

The Blues recently made their seventh signing of the transfer window, buying right-back Malo Gusto from Lyon, and as part of the deal, he will return to the French club on loan for the rest of the season.

However, Chelsea look set to continue their January business as they attempt to sign a midfielder before Tuesday's deadline.

Earlier in the window, Chelsea were in discussions with Benfica over a potential transfer for Fernandez, who recently won the Best Young Player award at the 2022 World Cup with winners Argentina.

The Blues failed in their attempts to sign the 22-year-old as the Portuguese giants demanded his €120m (£105.4m) release clause to be paid in full.

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Chelsea have explored the possibility of signing alternatives, including Everton's Amadou Onana and Brighton & Hove Albion's Moises Caicedo.

While Onana does not want to leave the Toffees during the current transfer window, Brighton are reluctant to sell Caicedo, rejecting two bids from Chelsea's London rivals Arsenal.

According to Sky Sports News, Chelsea are revisiting the Fernandez transfer and have not given up hope of signing him before the transfer window closes.

The report claims that the Blues have offered players on loan and permanent deals as part of the potential transfer, but Benfica are unwilling to change their stance.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano is reporting that the two clubs are in discussions over a deal, suggesting that Chelsea would be prepared to pay the release clause.

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However, it is currently unclear whether Chelsea would willing to offer the €120m (£105.4m) in full or in instalments, as it could affect their ability to meet Premier League and UEFA financial fair-play rules.

While Benfica president Rui Costa wants to keep Fernandez, Chelsea are hopeful of getting a deal over the line.

Although Fernandez is believed to be keen to move to Stamford Bridge, he has been involved in Benfica's recent matches, including Thursday's 2-0 win over Pacos de Ferreira.

Since joining from River Plate last summer, Fernandez has scored four goals and registered seven assists in 29 appearances for Benfica.

The Argentina is currently under contract until 2027, but Benfica are keen for him to sign a new deal, as they expect the likes of Real Madrid and Barcelona to show an interest in the summer.