Enzo Fernandez wants a more advanced role under new Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino, his father reveals
- The 22-year-old is most often deployed as a deep-lying midfielder
- Chelsea are looking for candidates for the position during the summer transfer window
- Fernandez has had a difficult adjustment to life in London amid club strife
Enzo Fernandez is reportedly considering a new role within Chelsea’s starting eleven next season.
The World Cup winner, who joined the club during the January transfer window for a UK record £107 million from Benfica, has been the most used as a defensive midfielder during his time at Stamford Bridge.
Managers Graham Potter, Bruno Saltor and Frank Lampard have all played against the Argentina international, both in position and centre-back, but according to an interview with his father Raul, Fernandez is interested in switching styles next season.
Incoming manager Mauricio Pochettino is likely to have something to say as he plans a revamp in the position this summer.
But Raul Fernandez said the 22-year-old was keen to discuss the adjustment with his Argentine compatriot.
Enzo Fernandez (left) is keen to discuss a revamped role with coach Mauricio Pochettino (right)
Chelsea are regarded as front-runners in winning the signature of Moises Caicedo, another deep-lying midfielder
“Enzo is comfortable, happy and adjusting to London,” Raul told the Evening Standard.
“He is happy with the arrival of Pochettino. Next season? My son wants to be champion.
“I think (we’ll see Enzo play further up front next season). He would ask (Pochettino) to play more advanced.’
His desire to move forward could be aided by the proposed arrival of Chelsea’s primary target in midfield, Brighton’s Moises Caicedo, who also plays as a deep-lying midfielder.
The Ecuador international signed a new contract with the Seagulls in March but is widely expected to continue this summer, despite the South Coast’s Premier League finish at the end of last season putting them in the Europa League for the first time will battle. the history of the club.
The 22-year-old had an uneven debut season in West London but is looking to the future
Arsenal have long targeted the player, but are believed to have dropped out of the race to focus on their £100 million bid for West Ham captain Declan Rice – although Chelsea also continue to keep an eye on their former academy player.
The Blues hope Fernandez’s ambition to win more trophies with their side will be supported by a number of changes the team will undergo during the summer term.
As well as welcoming Pochettino in, he will look to trim down his overcrowded squad as he recruits into tight areas within the starting eleven, and reset players’ mindsets after a disappointing season.
Turbulence on and off the pitch contributed to the West London team recording their worst league finish in 30 years as they finished 12th on the final day of the season.