Barcelona joined by another European rival as potential transfer destinations for Enzo Fernandez: Reports

Barcelona are reportedly in the fray with Inter Milan for the services of Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez. The 2022 FIFA World Cup winner has slipped down the pecking order under new boss Enzo Maresca.

With Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia being the preferred pair in midfield for the Italian tactician, Fernandez, 23, is staring at an uncertain future at Stamford Bridge. Having arrived from Benfica on a then club-record £107 million in January 2023, the Argentine has contributed seven goals and six assists in 75 games across competitions for the Blues.

That includes 13 appearances across competitions this season - starting nine times - contributing an assist. However, with Maresca preferring Caicedo and Lavia, The Sun (as per GOAL) has reported that Fernandez could seek a way out of Stamford Bridge in January, with Inter and Barca interested.

The Argentine started from the bench in the Blues' last three Premier League games with Liverpool, Newcastle United and Manchester United, with Maresca's side winning and losing once apiece.

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What's next for Chelsea and Barcelona?

FC Barcelona manager Hnasi Flick

Chelsea have been on the rise under new boss Enzo Maresca. Following a 2-0 home defeat to Manchester City on the opening day, the Blues have lost just twice in their next 15 games across competitions.

Maresca's side are coming off a 1-1 Premier League draw at Manchester United at the weekend - with Moises Caicedo (74') cancelling out Bruno Fernandes' 70th-minute opener for the hosts. The Blues next take on Noah at home in the UEFA Europa Conference League on Thursday (November 7).

The Premier League giants - who beat Servette 3-2 on aggregate in the play-offs - opened their continental campaign with a 4-2 home win over Gent before beating Panathinaikos 4-0 away on matchday two last month.

Following their continental commitments, the Blues return to Premier League action at home to Arsenal on Sunday (November 10). Maresca's side are fourth in the standings after 10 games, trailing leaders Liverpool (25) by seven, having won five times.

Meanwhile, Barcelona are flying under new boss Hansi Flick, especially in La Liga, where they have won 11 of their opening 12 games to go nine points clear at the top.

After thumping holders Real Madrid 3-0 away, Flick's side beat Espanyol 3-1 at home and next take on Crvena Zvezda away on matchday four of the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday (November 6).