Chelsea could be pushing for a head-turning swap deal.placeholder image
Chelsea could be pushing for a head-turning swap deal. | Getty Images
The Blues could look to land a transfer blow on Premier League rivals Manchester United in the process, but it could all backfire.
Chelsea could look to ship pivotal midfielder Enzo Fernandez to Spain in a bid to persuade Real Madrid to allow the highly rated Federico Valverde to make his way to Stamford Bridge.
That’s the latest suggestion from Spanish outlet Defensa Central. The report goes as far as to claim that there is an understanding between Chelsea and Real Madrid that the London outfit is ready to make that happen.
It comes as somewhat of a surprise and just months after former Galacticos boss Carlo Ancelotti labelled Valverde as ‘irreplaceable’ for the Real Madrid side. However, since then, there has been drama in Madrid.
Federico Valverde reported fall out with Xabi Alonso
There were reports that Valverde had fallen out with new manager Xabi Alonso over a refusal to play in the right-back position. That is something that has fuelled transfer talk and the player has even addressed the rumours.
In a social media post, he wrote: “I’ve read several articles that damage my reputation. I know I’ve had some bad games, I’m aware of that. I don’t hide and I face criticism frankly. I’m really sad. They can say many things about me, but under no circumstances can they say that I refuse to play. I’ve given everything and more for this club; I’ve played through fractures and injuries, and I’ve never complained or asked for a break.
“I have a good relationship with the coach, which gives me enough confidence to tell him what position I prefer on the pitch, but I always, always made it clear to him that I am available to perform anywhere, on any trip and in any match. I’ve put my heart and soul into this club and I’ll continue to do so, even if sometimes it’s not enough or I don’t play the way I’d like. I swear on my pride that I’ll never give up and I’ll fight until the end, playing wherever I’m needed.”
Defensa Central claims that even if a club to club deal is agreed, Valverde may well not want to leave, even with the reports of a difficult relationship with Alonso. The Uruguay international has been with the club since 2017, winning three La Liga titles and two Champions League trophies.
Chelsea keen for Real Madrid swap deal
It’s also added that Chelsea could celebrate landing a blow on Premier League rivals Manchester United in the process. However, as good a player as Valverde is, it’s nothing short of madness that the Blues could allow Fernandez to leave.
The Argentine plays a huge role as the metronome in the Chelsea midfield, his box-to-box performances bringing so much to the team both at the back and going forwards. Fernandez is regularly seen busting his gut to affect play and has three goals already this season. He’s a must-keep character.
Fernandez’s relationship with Moises Caicedo is also not to be overlooked. The two have an almost telepathic rhythm to their play at times, which might not be replicated even with Valverde’s quality. What’s more, there’s no guarantee the Real Madrid megastar can easily make the transition to the UK.
Fernandez’s importance and that relationship with Caicedo is well known by Blues teammates too. Speaking in the summer, Reece James said: “They are two phenomenal players. They are up there with the best midfielders in the world. I think that will be clear on Sunday.
“Enzo Fernandez is an amazing player and person. He’s come on so much since he arrived at Chelsea, and he’s a huge part of Chelsea Football Club. He’s a huge player for our team.”
In other news, Watch Jose Mourinho's six word response to Joe Cole and Chelsea legend claim.
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