The coverage of Chelsea’s pursuit of Enzo Fernandez had a real change of tide in the past 24 hours, when it was revealed the Blues weren’t willing to pay as much as previously stated for his signing.
Even Benfica coach Roger Schmidt made public comments complaining about the London side’s attitude during the negotiations, claiming the midfielder is not for sale.
As this continues to be a very hot topic in the Portuguese media, there are now some claims saying Chelsea should be punished for their stance in these talks.
That’s something brought by Radio Renascença, who interviewed sports law professor Lucio Miguel Correia. They asked him about the Blues approach and were told FIFA could go after them in case Benfica make a formal complaint.
“There are some sanctions or fines that can be applied, but I don’t think that’s the case, unless Benfica made a complaint about Chelsea.”
Regarding Enzo, the professor said: “Benfica have had a lot of patience and contemplation because it is an important asset for the club.”
Since the negotiations between Benfica and Chelsea faltered, there’s a clear briefing from the Lisbon side saying they’re no longer negotiating the transfer. If the Blues want the player signed in January, they must trigger his €120m release clause, as despite his recent absence in training, the Eagles plan to hold him for the rest of the season.
