Chelsea are insisting that Enzo Fernandez remains a part of the club’s future. But behind the scenes, a contingency list of replacements is being drawn up, and a Sunderland star has emerged as a target.
We all know what Fernandez has been up to, and what he wants. The Argentine has made it abundantly clear that he would like to join Real Madrid, with reports claiming he dreams of becoming a Madrid icon.
Real Madrid are not the only side interested in the World Cup winner. PSG and Atletico Madrid are also keeping tabs on Chelsea’s £107m star, after both clubs qualified for the Champions League semi-finals.
You can sign ONE player from Spurs if they’re relegated, who are you choosing?
Chelsea remain in a strong negotiating position with Fernandez’s deal running until June 2032. But an exit is possible, and Chelsea have to consider replacements. Sunderland’s Noah Sadiki is on their shortlist.
Chelsea considering surprise move for Sunderland star Sadiki
DR Congo international Sadiki only joined Sunderland last season, but in a midfield with Granit Xhaka and former Strasbourg captain Habib Diarra, Sadiki has sparkled: a key part of Sunderland’s engine room.
While Fernandez has been used in an advanced role under Liam Rosenior, Sadiki is more of a defensive midfielder. He is in the top 5% of Premier League players for regaining the ball, a total of 263 times.
Algeria vs DR Congo R16- 2025 Africa Cup Of Nations
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TeamTalk say Chelsea are scouting Europe for replacements when it comes to Fernandez and Sadiki is among the names on the list. Joao Gomes of Wolves is another, but Gomes prefers a move to Liverpool.
Chelsea are not the only side considering Sadiki. The African ace has caught the eye of the division’s elite, with Manchester United, Arsenal, and relegation-threatened Tottenham all said to be considering a move.
Sunderland’s stance on a potential sale of Noah Sadiki
Even Everton are supposedly among the suitors for Sadiki this summer, with David Moyes’ side hoping to qualify for European football come the end of the season. But Sunderland have their own plans for Sadiki.
Would you get rid of Enzo Fernandez this summer?🤔
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Everton v Chelsea - Premier League
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Sunderland have no intention of selling their £15m star, and hope to keep the core of their side together ahead of the 2026-27 season. There is an intent to push for European football during the 2026-27 season.
One thing that may aid Chelsea in their pursuit of Sadiki is that the Sunderland star is represented by DWMA, according to TransferMarkt. It is the same agency that look after Chelsea star Wesley Fofana.
It is unclear how much Sunderland would consider if they had to sell Sadiki, but given he was bought for £15m and is now a proven Premier League star, along with the level of interest, it may be north of £40m.
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