Sky Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg reported on Wednesday that Maresca is "desperate" to sign Fernández and has already held initial behind-the-scenes conversations with the Argentina international. The incoming Manchester City manager sees the 25-year-old as a profile the squad does not currently possess — a technically elite box-to-box midfielder capable of controlling games in both phases.
Maresca and Fernández worked together at Chelsea during the Italian's tenure at Stamford Bridge, which ended when he was dismissed in January. That relationship is described by those close to both parties as tight and built on genuine trust.
Fernández joined Chelsea from Benfica in January 2023 for a then-British-record £106.8 million, and his contract runs until 2032. He finished the season with 15 goals and seven assists in 51 appearances — his most productive campaign at the club. Chelsea are in no immediate financial obligation to sell.
The obstacle is commercial leverage. Xabi Alonso, appointed as Chelsea's new manager on a four-year deal, has reportedly identified Fernández as one of five current players he intends to build his project around. Chelsea's position internally is that he is not for sale at any realistic figure.
But the player's desire complicates that stance. Fernández wants Champions League football. Chelsea finished outside the top four, meaning he faces a season without it if he stays. The Independent reported this week that a Fernández exit is becoming increasingly likely as the summer progresses.
Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain are also tracking the situation seriously. Plettenberg confirmed both clubs have him on their list. Real Madrid's interest is linked in part to ongoing uncertainty over Rodrygo's future and the possibility of Rodri leaving for the Santiago Bernabéu — if Rodri goes, City's need for Fernández becomes even more acute.
City are simultaneously pursuing Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson, meaning their midfield transformation this summer could be substantial. Chelsea have already been linked with Bournemouth midfielder Lewis Scott as a potential Fernández replacement.
The summer will ultimately be decided by whether Chelsea can find a way to offer what he wants — or whether Maresca, a manager he played for and trusts, pulls hard enough to force the issue.