Chelsea have made it emphatically clear that they have no intention to sell Enzo Fernandez to Real Madrid this summer. This is amid some genuine interest in the Argentine midfielder from the Spanish capital city. The 24-year-old was acquired by the Blues from Benfica in January 2023 for a British-record £106.8 million. He has since made himself an established player at Stamford Bridge, even captaining the team under head coach Enzo Maresca.
Real Madrid are lining up to appoint Xabi Alonso as their new manager, following the departure of Carlo Ancelotti. They want to bolster the midfield and Fernandez is on their radar. Liverpool’s Alexis Mac Allister and Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Larsson are also other options for Los Blancos. Madrid have also been tracking Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi, but he is reportedly signing for Arsenal.
There is major speculation in Argentina that Fernandez has verbally accepted terms with Real Madrid and is already eyeing up the purchase of a house in Madrid. However, Chelsea do not care. The midfielder is tied down until 2032 and his club would seek a fee well in excess of the £106.8 million that they signed him for. There is no suggestion that Fernandez is unhappy at the Bridge, and any exit would see him wanting out, which does not seem likely at present.
Why Real Madrid Wish to Sign Enzo Fernandez from Chelsea
Real Madrid want Fernandez because they need to reconstitute their midfield following Toni Kroos’s retirement and Luka Modric’s advancement in age. The financial constraints and Chelsea’s hold, however, make the deal complex.
Madrid are watching other midfield prospects, but not as costly and as difficult to persuade. This is perhaps why players like Liverpool’s Mac Allister are on their radar.
Meanwhile, Fernandez has played superbly, contributing to the Blues’ cause seven goals and 13 assists from 44 games across all competitions. His performances have been instrumental in Chelsea’s pursuit of qualification to the Champions League.
As the summer transfer window approaches, the Blues’ resolve to retain Fernandez will be tested, but for now, the club is expected to retain their midfielder.