For several weeks, Chelsea and Benfica engaged in difficult negotiations as they attempted to come to an agreement regarding Argentina’s World Cup champion.
Chelsea shattered the British transfer record by signing Fernandez for €121 million (£107 million) in the final hours of the January transfer window.
Hakim Ziyech, whose move to Paris Saint-Germain fell through on deadline day, was among the players Chelsea offered Benfica during negotiations.
Record claims that throughout discussions, Kovacic was the only player that Benfica wanted, but the Chelsea midfielder’s wage made it “impossible” for the Portuguese club.
Fernandez allegedly “threatened” to broadcast a video on social media criticizing Benfica’s management for blocking his transfer to Chelsea, according to the article.
Graham Potter, on the other hand, is certain that Fernandez has the temperament to succeed at Stamford Bridge.
Every transfer is a risk, but I can understand that, said Potter.
“You’ll be quoted a lot of money if you look at the market for midfield players, especially midfield guys who haven’t won the World Cup.” We have a man with a strong mentality who played midfield for Argentina, the World Cup champions.
He possesses qualities that allow him to compete in any league in the globe. We were already aware of him since he performed admirably in the Champions League and we had been following him before the World Cup. Therefore, we have faith in the personality.
He is still a young man arriving in our country, therefore it’s just like anything else. You must change to fit the club. But we’ll be able to assist him with that, and given his personality, you won’t need to worry about him.
He is a fighter, and I believe he is aware of his good fortune. He is brave, fearless, and open-minded, and he battles for the team.
He is brave, fearless, and open-minded, and he battles for the team. He wants to get better, but it’s difficult to have such qualities when you’re representing Argentina as the No. 6 player, playing in the major games at his age, and with the quality.