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Enzo Fernandez’s future at Chelsea could become clearer if Manchester City sign Ayyoub Bouaddi and Real Madrid complete a move for Rodri.
Both clubs have previously featured in speculation surrounding the Argentina international. However, their emerging midfield plans could leave Fernandez without an obvious elite destination this summer.
Manchester City are progressing in negotiations with Lille for Bouaddi. Meanwhile, Real Madrid have opened talks over Rodri after identifying the Spain international as a leading midfield target.
Neither transfer has been completed. However, Chelsea could emerge with greater control over Fernandez’s situation if both deals advance.
🚨🇲🇦 Manchester City are confident to get deal done for Ayyoub Bouaddi in the next days.
Negotiations are accelerating as reported on Monday and #MCFC increasingly optimistic.
🩵 Bouaddi to join now or in 2027 could also depends on exits, including Rodri situation. pic.twitter.com/b8PFdjMCpx
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 29, 2026
Bouaddi deal changes Enzo Fernandez future
Manchester City were linked with Fernandez earlier in the summer as Enzo Maresca prepared to reshape his midfield.
However, Sky Sports reported in May that City had no intention of pursuing the Chelsea midfielder. Their priority was Elliot Anderson, who has since arrived from Nottingham Forest.
Bouaddi would add another major midfield investment. The 18-year-old can receive possession under pressure and progress the ball from deeper areas.
He is not an identical alternative to Fernandez. However, City would have little reason to spend another nine-figure fee after recruiting Anderson and Bouaddi.
Rodri’s potential departure briefly appeared capable of reopening the route. City could need an experienced controller if the Spaniard leaves.
Bouaddi’s arrival would reduce that urgency. City could also distribute Rodri’s responsibilities across several midfielders rather than sign Fernandez directly.
Rodri move could close the Real Madrid route
Real Madrid have been the club most consistently linked with Fernandez during the summer.
However, talkSPORT reports that Madrid have started discussions with Manchester City over Rodri. The 30-year-old has entered the final year of his contract and is open to returning to Spain.
Rodri would immediately become Madrid’s deepest midfielder. His arrival could also allow their creative players to operate further forward.
Fernandez offers different qualities. He carries a greater threat around the penalty area and can play as an advanced number eight.
Madrid are unlikely to make two expensive midfield additions without significant departures. A completed Rodri deal would therefore remove the clearest opening for Fernandez at the Bernabeu.
Chelsea gain stronger control over Fernandez
Chelsea have maintained a strong negotiating position because Fernandez remains tied to a long-term contract.
The disappearance of City and Madrid as realistic destinations would strengthen that position further. Chelsea would not need to lower their valuation or entertain an unfavourable exchange deal.
Xabi Alonso could instead focus on defining Fernandez’s role alongside Moises Caicedo. The Argentine can become the progressive link between Chelsea’s deeper midfield and attacking players.
The arrival of Jordan Henderson would provide experienced cover rather than directly threaten that position. Fabrizio Romano has confirmed Henderson’s agreement with Chelsea, adding leadership to Alonso’s midfield options.
Chelsea also remain interested in Alex Scott. Their potential second move for the Bournemouth midfielder would provide further competition and tactical flexibility.
Fernandez could still attract interest elsewhere, with Atletico Madrid previously linked. However, few clubs can meet Chelsea’s valuation while offering a clear sporting upgrade.
Bouaddi and Rodri moving elsewhere would not formally settle the Enzo Fernandez future. They could still leave remaining at Chelsea as his most realistic outcome.