Chelsea are close to agreeing a deal for Benfica’s Enzo Fernandez after making a £105.6m bid – the same value as the midfielder’s release clause.

Todd Boehly’s Blues want to structure that release clause fee in instalments, as paying in one go has Financial Fair Play and tax implications.

Chelsea have been in talks to sign the Argentina World Cup winner throughout this month but Benfica had refused to do business unless the Blues pay the €120m (£105.6m) release clause.

Chelsea had offered players on loan and on permanent deals but the Portuguese side refused to accept anything except the release clause figure.