Ben Jacobs has just done a short Tweet thread outlining how a deal for Enzo Fernandez can still happen – even without Chelsea paying the €120m release clause that Benfica are holding out for.
Jacobs notes a few important factors as to why a deal could yet happen – even without Chelsea paying the midfielder’s release clause.
Firstly – Fernandez still wants the move, and while he won’t cause a fuss if he has to stay until the summer, is definitely keen for a switch now, and will do what he can to get it over the line.
🚨 Chelsea still hope Benfica soften on their Enzo Fernandez position due to an offer lower than his €120m release clause still being significantly above his market or summer value. pic.twitter.com/I781X5MX21
— Ben Jacobs (@JacobsBen) January 23, 2023
Secondly, he notes that while Benfica’s public stance is that they won’t accept anything below the release clause, the fact that there is a “divided board” could play into our hands, if they start feeling we’re making the best offer they will ever get.
If we make a bigger offer that is still short of the clause, we could yet see the Portuguese club break their stance.
