Enzo Fernandez joins Chelsea for British-record switch payment

LISBON (AP) — Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez grew to become the costliest participant in British soccer historical past after becoming a member of Chelsea from Benfica for 106.7 million kilos ($131.4 million), the Portuguese membership introduced Wednesday.

The payment surpassed the 100 million kilos (then $139 million) that Manchester Metropolis paid Aston Villa for England worldwide Jack Grealish in August 2021.

Chelsea agreed to pay the discharge clause within the 22-year-old World Cup winner’s contract after a day of negotiations between Benfica and the co-owners of the Premier League membership.

Fernandez solely joined Benfica from Argentine membership River Plate in August, for a reported payment of round $10 million plus add-ons.

His profile elevated on the World Cup in Qatar final 12 months, when he broke into Argentina’s crew throughout its run to successful the title.

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