Enzo Fernandes: How the Argentine midfielder became a starter for Chelsea

Fernandes is among a group of players who feel their recent performances should spark fresh talks about a new deal.

The midfielder is now represented by a new football agency that includes former Paris Saint-Germain and Argentina player Javier Pastore, alongside his agent Matias Toranzo, after parting ways with his previous representatives.

Their main task was to secure an improved contract for Fernandes, and they quickly announced their intentions for the club.

Since their appointment, there have been rumors that European champions Paris Saint-Germain are interested, although the midfielder is known to be reluctant to move to the French club. Like almost all Latin players, he is known to be a fan of Real Madrid, but they are unlikely to make a move in the near future.

Asked about the speculation last week, coach Liam Rosenior said: “It means nothing to me. When you are a world-class player, a top player, there will always be speculation that you cannot control. He was great in the time I worked with him.”

Chelsea remain relaxed about any potential negotiations and have no intention of selling Fernandes even if there is interest. Fernandes is under contract until 2032, giving the club the option to reject offers and providing significant leverage in any future renewal talks.

However, Fernandes is important to the club commercially and his image is particularly positive in the Spanish-speaking world, with sponsors often requesting his time in his role as a Chelsea player.

There is also no indication that speculation or the condition of the contract affects its performance. Fernandes has recently played through illness – earning further praise from Rosenior – and has shown a willingness to cover Palmer in a No. 10 role or play deeper in midfield, with Romeu Lavia also missing.

Having been appointed vice-captain by former head coach Enzo Maresca, Fernandes’ personality complements the calm and easy-going demeanor of captain Reece James.

Those who know him describe him as an “aggressive leader” but also a little “crazy,” and he has been known to give team talks at half-time or in key matches.

Fernandes has enlisted the help of Ukrainian performance coach Dima Chabovski to help adapt to the Premier League’s fitness, having spent just six months in Portugal after leaving his original club River Plate in 2022.

He is also known to be interested in self-help books, and has access to a psychologist and personal trainer who talks him through his clips on the pitch.

Alongside Fernandes, fellow midfielder Caicedo and defender Levi Colwell are understood to be keen on contract renewal talks, but Chelsea are hoping to postpone discussions until the summer with all three players.