Chelsea’s pursuit of Enzo Fernandez is anticipated to take a very long time because Benfica has been characterized as being contentious in their negotiations and refusing to move on their demands.
The Portuguese club has insisted that Chelsea meet the midfielder’s £106 million release clause if they want the move to go through, according to a report on Monday.
The Stamford Bridge management tried to come up with an agreement worth slightly more than that clause that can be paid in installments because such a move would result in high tax charges.
A variety of ideas, including front-loading the cost to the first payment, have been proposed by Chelsea. This has been rejected by Benfica, who have maintained their position throughout.
Chelsea could leave the negotiations, but they will keep working to close the deal over the next hours.