Fabrizio Romano Transfer News: Enzo Fernandez contract truth, Bernardo Silva exit, De Zerbi update

Cameron Smith

• 31 Mar 2026 12:00 BST
• 6 min read

News

Football news expert Fabrizio Romano has provided an update on several major transfer stories ahead of this summer, including the latest on Enzo Fernandez, Bernardo Silva and Roberto De Zerbi.

Roberto De Zerbi close to Tottenham

Tottenham Hotspur are searching for their third manager of the season and, in his latest YouTube video, Romano has revealed that a deal for Roberto De Zerbi is close.

“The update I can give you is that Roberto De Zerbi is very close to becoming the new Tottenham Hotspur manager, with the ‘here we go’ expected soon. This is a major development following Tottenham’s decision to part ways with Igor Tudor,” he said.

“I told you to keep an eye on De Zerbi because he has always been one of the main names under consideration. Marco Silva was also discussed, but at this stage he is not leaving Fulham before the end of the season.

“From the beginning of this process, the club’s preference has been clear. De Zerbi has always been highly rated internally, even earlier in the season when managerial plans were first being considered.

“There was also a discussion involving Mauricio Pochettino, but that situation is complicated due to his commitments with the United States national team and the upcoming World Cup.

“De Zerbi is currently available, and his tactical quality, leadership style, and strong relationship with players are all factors that Tottenham appreciate.”

Romano continued: “Tottenham have decided to go all in for De Zerbi, presenting a significant financial proposal including a five-year contract and one of the most competitive managerial salaries in the Premier League.

“Talks are now at an advanced stage, covering contract details, backroom staff, and overall project structure.

“Initially, the idea was to discuss a summer appointment, but De Zerbi has now opened the door to taking the job immediately, despite the risks involved.

“He has multiple opportunities for the summer across Europe, but accepting this challenge now would be a bold move given Tottenham’s current situation.

“The club remains optimistic about reaching a full agreement soon, with final discussions ongoing and a green light expected shortly.”

Bernardo Silva to leave Man City

Bernardo Silva is into the final few months of his Manchester City contract and he is set to depart the club on a Bosman deal, rather than extend his stay.

Romano admitted: “When discussing major decisions, Bernardo Silva is one of the key names to watch ahead of the summer transfer window. As previously mentioned during the January window, his future was already under consideration, and now the decision is almost final.

Current ETV

Bernardo Silva  

M (CR)

Man City

Bernardo Silva  

M (CR)

Man City

€22.1M

ETV Range

€19.9M - €24.3M

View full profile

“Unless there is a dramatic change, Bernardo Silva is preparing to leave Manchester City at the end of the season when his contract expires.

“He is working closely with his agent Jorge Mendes to evaluate the best options for his next move. There is strong interest from multiple regions including Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and several European leagues.

“Barcelona remains a club to watch due to their strong relationship with Jorge Mendes and their long-standing interest in Bernardo Silva. He has also been a target for clubs like Paris Saint-Germain in the past, and despite being at a different stage in his career, he remains one of the top midfielders in world football.

“At this stage, it is too early to name specific clubs in active negotiations, but there is widespread interest. The decision will be based not only on football but also on personal and family considerations, as he approaches the later stages of his career.

“The direction is clear - Bernardo Silva is preparing for a new chapter away from Manchester City.”

Newcastle reach transfer agreement

Meanwhile, Newcastle are set to complete the signing of an Ecuadorian wonderkid, as per Romano.

“Newcastle United have reached an agreement to sign Juan Martinez, a highly rated winger from Independiente del Valle,” the transfer expert revealed. “The Ecuadorian talent, born in 2009, has attracted attention from top European clubs and was previously close to joining a German side.

“Newcastle have moved quickly to secure the deal, with documents expected to be signed soon.

“The player has already said yes to the move, although he will officially join when he turns 18 due to FIFA regulations.

“This represents another important addition from a region that continues to produce top young talent.”

Raphael Guerreiro to become free agent

In addition to Bernardo Silva, Raphael Guerreiro is also set to become a free agent when his Bayern Munich contract expires in July.

“Raphael Guerreiro is expected to leave Bayern Munich at the end of the season as a free agent,” Romano confirmed.

“The Portuguese left-back, now 32, is ready for a new chapter after his time in Germany with both Borussia Dortmund and Bayern. He will be available on a free transfer, making him an attractive opportunity for several clubs in the market.”

Enzo Fernandez contract truth

Finally, Romano revealed that Enzo Fernandez is not in formal discussions over a new contract with Chelsea as he contemplates his future at the club.

“Enzo Fernandez has also made headlines following recent comments about his future. After a Champions League match, he stated that he remains focused on Chelsea for now, with several games still to be played before any decisions are made,” Romano said.

“In a more relaxed interview setting in Argentina, he mentioned that he would like to live in Madrid one day, describing his admiration for the city.

“While this was not strictly a football-related comment, it does add context to ongoing speculation around his future.”

Romano added: “At present, there is no agreement on a new contract with Chelsea, and no formal negotiations have progressed.

“This creates a level of uncertainty, especially as he has not ruled out considering his options in the upcoming summer transfer window.”

Football transfer news headlines today

Arsenal Transfer News Today: Secret wonderkid signing as Man Utd battle erupts

Chelsea Transfer News Today: Enzo Fernandez exit close as unexpected star tipped to return

Man Utd Transfer News Today: Palmer ‘primed’ for Chelsea exit as €100m marquee move planned

Transfer Rumours: 'Astronomical' Chelsea fee needed as Camavinga deal closer

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