Real Madrid have gone as far as to issue an official statement to deny any interest in Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez during the summer transfer window. The Spanish giants released their communiqué on Friday, shortly after the Argentinian’s agent Javier Pastore hinted his client was considering a Stamford Bridge exit.
Los Blancos have insisted they have made no direct or indirect approach for the player and have no desire to pursue such a deal. The club also emphasised their respect for Fernandez and Chelsea, saying the two institutions enjoy a great working relationship. Similarly, Real Madrid lamented that in the absence of any concrete action, unfounded reports continue to circulate and confuse supporters.
Fernandez moved to West London from Benfica for a British record fee of around £107 million back in early 2023. Since then, the 25-year-old has made 169 appearances for the Blues, scoring 31 goals during his time at the club. He also had a productive individual season last term, scoring 15 times in all competitions in a very difficult campaign.
The Argentina international is understood to be keen to seek a new challenge elsewhere after Chelsea’s failure to qualify for Europe. But with six years left on his deal, the Blues hold a strong hand and value him at about £120 million. Real Madrid, for their part, are prioritising player sales over any further additions to their squad this summer.
Chelsea Line Up Granit Xhaka as Enzo Fernandez Uncertainty Looms
Chelsea have moved to bolster their midfield by targeting Sunderland captain Granit Xhaka this summer, with Fernandez’s future genuinely in doubt. New boss Xabi Alonso is a huge admirer of the Switzerland international, having worked with him at Bayer Leverkusen. Together the pair won three major honours, including the club’s historic Bundesliga title in the 2023-24 campaign.
The Blues have already had an initial bid of around £8 million turned down but are preparing an improved offer. But Sunderland are reluctant sellers and are big fans of the 33-year-old, having handed him the armband on his arrival. The ambitious Wearside outfit are under no real pressure to cash in with Xhaka under contract until 2028.
The veteran midfielder is reportedly trying to force through a deal to link up with his old boss again. Xhaka is currently playing for Switzerland at the World Cup where they have progressed into the knockout rounds. Ultimately, if Fernandez does depart, the addition of an experienced leader would give Alonso some experience in an especially young dressing room.