It is pretty much an open secret that Enzo Fernandez wants to leave Chelsea this summer. He has spent over three years at the club. And having seen little to no progress, the Argentine World Cup winner appears to be looking for a change of scenery. To be honest, it is understandable. It is clear that the BlueCo project has not panned out according to expectations. ‘Tweaks’ are already being made, although a lot more might be needed to get it back on track.
Getting back to Fernandez, it looks like there are only a handful of clubs who might be capable of signing him. That is because reports have suggested that Chelsea want around £120 million to part ways.
Of course, Chelsea are in a strong position due to his long-term contract. And Real Madrid appears to be the only club with a concrete interest at the moment. In fact, it looks like Real Madrid are willing to make two different offers, even though they are unwilling to meet that £120 million valuation.
According to El Debate, Real Madrid are willing to pay €100 million plus bonuses. The other option is to include a Real Madrid player in the deal to reach an agreement.
Would Chelsea be willing to decrease their transfer valuation for Enzo Fernandez?
The report further goes on to add that Fernandez’s representative has spoken with Jorge Mendes to facilitate the deal. They want the super agent to get Chelsea to negotiate with Real Madrid.
It remains to be seen if any of those terms are acceptable to Chelsea. They have the leverage in this position. Of course, if Fernandez starts seriously pushing for an exit, that would weaken.
The other clubs linked with a move for Fernandez seem to have dropped out, or at least faded to the background. The PSG links have been downplayed already. Manchester City appear to be more interested in Elliot Anderson and view him as the priority. As for Arsenal, I am just not sure how much genuine interest there is on their part.
So, Real Madrid seems like the only realistic destination for Fernandez at this point. And he has already mentioned in the media how he wants to live in the Spanish capital someday.
Real Madrid players who could interest Xabi Alonso
The Xabi Alonso factor could come into play here. The Spaniard was managing Real Madrid not too long ago, and would surely have his set of favourites there.
Arda Guler is a name that has done the rounds of the media already. For now, it seems likely that he will continue at Real Madrid. Would Los Blancos even be willing to include him in any discussions? He is a mercurial talent in his own right.
Aurelien Tchouameni is a big name who might not have a future at Real Madrid after recent events. He was a nailed-on starter under Alonso. But if Chelsea do sign him, there would be a question mark over his attitude for sure.
Eduardo Camavinga is another name that has been linked with Chelsea in recent times. But unlike Tchouameni, he did not start games consistently when Alonso was Real Madrid manager. He was involved though and viewed as an option off the bench when not starting.