Deadline: Enzo joins City as Grealish, Mudryk, Fofana, Timber seal moves

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The Premier League transfer window closed on Tuesday night with clubs rushing to complete a series of deals before the midnight deadline, including Manchester City’s capture of Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernández.

Fernández, 25, has signed a five-year deal with the Premier League champions that will keep him at the Etihad until 2031.

The Argentina international, who helped his country win the 2022 FIFA World Cup and the 2024 Copa America, said he was delighted to begin a new chapter with City.

“Manchester City are the most successful club in England in recent times,” Fernández said.

“Every player wants to be part of a club like this because everyone knows how well-run City are.

“I could not be happier to be here, and I am ready for the challenge of helping City continue winning trophies.”

City director of football Hugo Viana welcomed the midfielder, describing him as a technically gifted and hard-working player who can score goals and contribute across the midfield.

Viana also pointed to Fernández’s experience on the biggest international stage, saying his record of winning major honours at just 25 reflected his mentality and professionalism.

Sanchez leaves Stamford Bridge

Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sánchez will spend the 2026/27 season in Italy after completing a loan move to Como.

Sánchez joined Chelsea from Brighton and Hove Albion in August 2023 and went on to make 112 appearances for the London club.

The goalkeeper was involved in Chelsea’s successful campaigns in the UEFA Conference League and FIFA Club World Cup before securing the temporary move to Serie A.

Mudryk reunites with De Zerbi

Chelsea winger Mykhailo Mudryk has also moved on loan, joining up with Roberto De Zerbi for the season.

The Ukraine international previously worked with De Zerbi and said he was looking forward to renewing the relationship.

“I can’t wait to start training and playing for the club, and I’m so excited to be reunited with Roberto De Zerbi,” Mudryk said.

The winger said he hoped to use his pace and creativity to make an impact in attack while also contributing defensively.

De Zerbi expressed confidence in Mudryk’s ability, particularly his speed and quality in one-on-one situations.

“Having worked with Misha earlier in his career, I know exactly what he can bring to our team,” he said.

Fofana strengthens Sunderland

Sunderland completed the signing of Belgian winger Malick Fofana from Lyon on a long-term contract.

Fofana, 21, becomes Sunderland’s fifth signing of the summer after establishing himself at Lyon, where he made 82 appearances, scoring 18 goals and registering six assists.

Sunderland director of football Florent Ghisolfi said the club believed Fofana had the qualities required to succeed in the Premier League.

“Malick has all the attributes to thrive in the Premier League,” Ghisolfi said.

“He is a player with huge potential and Sunderland AFC will provide him with the right environment to continue to develop and prosper.”

Palace land Timber

Crystal Palace also announced the signing of Netherlands midfielder Quinten Timber on a contract that runs through to 2031.

The 25-year-old has 13 international caps and arrives after featuring for Marseille and Feyenoord.

Palace chairman Steve Parish said Timber’s experience, leadership, determination and technical ability made him an important addition to the squad.

Grealish returns to Everton

Jack Grealish will remain at Everton for another season after Manchester City agreed to send the England international back to the Merseyside club on loan.

The 30-year-old spent last season at Everton, where he made 20 Premier League appearances, scoring twice and providing six assists.

His campaign ended prematurely in February following a foot injury.

Grealish said the warm reception he received from the Everton manager, players and supporters played a major role in his decision to return.

“It feels so good. I’m so happy. I think I’m at my best at everything in life, not just football, when I feel loved,” he said.

The transfer window officially shut at midnight on Tuesday, although deals submitted to the relevant authorities before the deadline could still be formally confirmed afterwards.

The closing hours of the window produced significant movement across the Premier League, with clubs finalising permanent transfers and loan agreements as they prepared for the remainder of the 2026/27 season.

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