Gianfranco Zola compares new Chelsea signing to Cesc Fabregas

Chelsea legend Gianfranco Zola has compared new signing Enzo Fernandez to former club midfielder Cesc Fabregas.

The Blues spent a Premier League record £106.8 million to sign Fernandez from Benfica in the January transfer window.

The Argentine midfielder has adapted to the league seamlessly, slotting into the base of Chelsea’s midfield.

Fernandez registered his first assist for the club against West Ham United last weekend. He played a deft pass behind the Hammers’ defence, allowing Joao Felix to slot home.

The pass was reminiscent of Fabregas’ many defence-splitting passes during his time at Stamford Bridge.

“Enzo, I was so impressed with his qualities,” Zola said (via Sky Sports). “The speed of mind when he is playing. In a way, he reminds me of Cesc Fabregas,”

Over the two games that he has played for Chelsea, Fernandez has been their best player, dictating the game from midfield.

In his debut game versus Fulham, he recorded 99 touches, the most of anyone on the pitch. He completed 64/75 passes (85% accuracy) while playing one key pass.

Fernandez also played seven long balls and completed six. He won eight of his 12 ground duels and his only aerial duel. He won two fouls and made three clearances, six tackles and two interceptions.

The former River Plate man was just as impressive against West Ham.

Fernandez can still influence games more after tailing off in the second half of both games, but he is a rare and complete profile that the Blues will enjoy for years.

Unlike Fabregas, he enjoys the physical side as much as the technical part, something Chelsea fans will appreciate.

However, Chelsea must find Fernandez the perfect midfield partner going forward. The club must sign a holding midfielder to allow Fernandez to take on more attacking responsibilities.