Manchester City are reportedly considering an ambitious move for two Chelsea stars as new manager Enzo Maresca continues building his squad ahead of the 2026-27 season.
According to the latest reports, Maresca wants to reunite with Enzo Fernandez and Malo Gusto, while Manchester City’s transfer plans continue to be influenced by the uncertain future of midfield star Rodri.
Although neither deal is currently close to completion, both players remain high on City’s transfer shortlist.
Transfer Overview
| Club | Target | Estimated Value | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manchester City | Enzo Fernandez | £120m | Monitoring |
| Manchester City | Malo Gusto | £75m | Interested |
| Chelsea | Enzo Fernandez | Not actively selling | Key player |
| Chelsea | Malo Gusto | Not actively selling | Key player |
Maresca Wants Two Chelsea Stars
Reports suggest Maresca remains a huge admirer of both Enzo Fernandez and Malo Gusto, having previously worked with the pair during his coaching career.
Manchester City are expected to reassess their options once several international players return from their post-World Cup holidays.
While no formal negotiations have been confirmed, the Premier League champions are believed to be preparing for potential discussions later this summer.
Chelsea, however, are expected to make any negotiations extremely difficult.
Why Enzo Fernandez Is a Priority
Enzo Fernandez has emerged as City’s preferred midfield option because of the uncertainty surrounding Rodri’s long-term future.
The Argentine World Cup winner offers:
- Excellent passing range.
- Strong defensive positioning.
- High work rate.
- Ability to control possession.
- Experience in major tournaments.
If Rodri misses a significant part of the season or eventually departs, Fernandez could become the ideal long-term replacement.
Why Malo Gusto Fits Maresca’s System
Manchester City are also believed to be looking for additional depth at right-back.
Malo Gusto’s attacking style, pace, and technical ability make him an attractive option for Maresca’s possession-based system.
His ability to overlap, deliver crosses, and contribute during build-up play would provide City with another dynamic option on the right flank.
Potential Transfer Costs
| Player | Estimated Fee |
|---|---|
| Enzo Fernandez | £120 million |
| Malo Gusto | £75 million |
| Total Potential Spending | £195 million |
If both transfers were completed, it would represent one of the biggest spending sprees of the summer transfer window.
Rodri’s Future Remains Uncertain
Despite ongoing speculation linking Rodri with Real Madrid, reports suggest a move away from Manchester City remains unlikely this summer.
The Spanish midfielder has just one year remaining on his current contract, allowing Real Madrid to negotiate directly with him from January if no extension is agreed.
However, Manchester City’s preference remains clear.
The club would rather agree a new long-term contract than lose one of the world’s best midfielders.
Rodri Injury Update
Rodri is also facing a spell on the sidelines after suffering a back injury during Spain’s successful 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign.
He is expected to undergo surgery and is likely to miss the opening weeks of the new Premier League season.
Injury Status
| Category | Update |
|---|---|
| Injury | Back problem |
| Surgery | Confirmed |
| Return Date | Unknown |
| Premier League Start | Expected to miss opening matches |
His absence could encourage Manchester City to strengthen their midfield regardless of whether he eventually signs a new contract.
How a Double Signing Could Transform City’s Squad
Should Manchester City complete deals for both Fernandez and Gusto, Maresca would significantly strengthen two important positions.
Possible Starting XI
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| GK | Ederson |
| RB | Malo Gusto |
| CB | Rúben Dias |
| CB | Joško Gvardiol |
| LB | Josko Gvardiol / Alternative |
| CM | Enzo Fernandez |
| CM | Nico Gonzalez |
| AM | Phil Foden |
| RW | Savinho |
| ST | Erling Haaland |
| LW | Jérémy Doku |
Rodri could then return gradually once fully fit, giving City one of the deepest midfield groups in Europe.
Biggest Obstacles to the Deals
| Challenge | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Chelsea’s asking price | Around £195m combined |
| Chelsea’s willingness to sell | Both players remain important |
| Financial Fair Play | Large transfer investment required |
| Competition | Other elite clubs continue monitoring both players |
Key Takeaways
| Topic | Summary |
|---|---|
| Main Targets | Enzo Fernandez & Malo Gusto |
| Estimated Cost | £195 million |
| Rodri Situation | Expected to stay despite speculation |
| Injury News | Back surgery confirmed |
| City’s Priority | Strengthen midfield and right-back |
Final Verdict
Manchester City’s reported interest in Enzo Fernandez and Malo Gusto highlights Enzo Maresca’s ambition to reshape the squad ahead of the new campaign.
While a combined £195 million investment would represent one of the summer’s biggest transfer stories, Chelsea’s reluctance to sell both players means negotiations would likely prove extremely difficult.
Meanwhile, Rodri’s injury and contract situation continue to add uncertainty, but as things stand, Manchester City remain confident that the Spanish midfielder will stay at the Etihad Stadium and continue to play a central role in Maresca’s long-term plans.
