Enzo Fernandez returns for Chelsea this weekend, but questions remain over his future at the London club.
The Argentina midfielder, 25, gave three interviews while away with his national side, referring to his desire to one day live in Spain's capital, having been heavily linked with Spanish giants Real Madrid.
That led to a two-match internal ban, jointly decided by head coach Liam Rosenior and the club hierarchy. The suspension has now ended, although not before attempts by Fernandez's agent, Javier Pastore, to have it reduced by a game.
Chelsea's attempts to move on from the episode involving their number eight reflect a desire to steady the situation at an early stage.
Fernandez has 12 goals and six assists this season, placing him behind only striker Joao Pedro for goal involvements, in 46 appearances. He remains regarded internally as a marquee player, with Rosenior offering public praise even while enforcing the ban.
It may be a rational short-term approach, but the longer-term solution is more straightforward: money.
Either Chelsea offer Fernandez a new contract or he attempts to force a move.
"He deserves much more than he is currently earning," Pastore said in a lengthy interview with The Athletic during the international break.
Fernandez is among several players seeking improved terms at Stamford Bridge, alongside Levi Colwill and Malo Gusto, with midfielder Moises Caicedo agreeing a lucrative new deal on Thursday.
Chelsea are hopeful of agreeing one or two more deals before the end of the season.
However, with contract talks on hold until the summer, according to Fernandez's entourage, the alternative scenario is more problematic.
Chelsea sources indicate it would take a substantial fee – close to the club record sale that saw Eden Hazard join Real Madrid in 2019 for an initial £88m rising to £130m in add-ons – for any deal to be considered.
That valuation reflects not only Fernandez's importance on the pitch, but also financial necessity.
In Fernandez's case, Chelsea would need to secure a fee of at least £75m–£77.6m – depending on the timing of a sale – to avoid recording a loss, which would further restrict future spending.
With Fernandez's camp having demonstrated a willingness to take an assertive stance, and the backdrop of a World Cup providing further opportunity to shape the narrative, failure to reach a new agreement would represent a growing concern – despite Rosenior's attempts to project confidence.
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