City's late-window pursuit of Fernández takes shape
Enzo Maresca has confirmed that Manchester City are actively seeking to bolster their leadership group before the transfer window slams shut on Tuesday, with Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernández emerging as the club's prime target.
Speaking after City's latest pre-season outing, Maresca acknowledged that the squad already possesses experienced figures and leaders, but he made it clear that the coaching staff are looking to add one or two more captains to the existing core of Rúben Dias and Erling Haaland.
"We have experienced players," Maresca said. "For sure, we have leaders. Now we need to wait four-five more days until the transfer window closes to see if we can add one or two more captains to Rúben and Erling."
The pursuit of Fernández is no secret. City have identified the 25-year-old as a candidate capable of immediately assuming significant responsibility in the dressing room, and despite Chelsea's self-imposed 14 August deadline for a formal bid passing without an offer, the Blues are still expected to make a late move.
There is a clear tactical dimension to the interest too. Adding Fernández would bring composure and control in the central third, building on the lessons that began in the K League All-Stars game and were sharpened during the Inter Milan friendly.
Meanwhile, the squad is set for further movement before the deadline. Omar Marmoush is poised to join Tottenham Hotspur, with Maresca confirming the Egyptian's departure is close but not yet finalised.
"I think Omar is set to leave. It's not done yet, but we are waiting for that," Maresca said.
There is also an update on Jack Grealish, who has been linked with a loan exit. Maresca was typically measured on the subject, noting that the winger remains part of the squad until he isn't.
"Jack is here until the day that he's not here," the manager said. "It's my duty to try to help him to give us the best, and then we'll see in the next four-five days what happens."
Liverpool's Cody Gakpo is also being monitored, though no further details were offered. With the window closing in a matter of days, the next week will define the shape of Maresca's squad for the season ahead.