Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernández has been linked with Real Madrid for quite some time. The Spanish runners-up are reportedly very fond of the Argentine midfielder and it appears the feeling is mutual.
Argentine media have been reporting for some time that Real Madrid are closely monitoring Enzo Fernández’s situation.
Some sources have even suggested that a personal agreement between the player and the Spanish giants is already in place in principle, although such claims should be taken with caution, given the speculative nature of the reporting. Still, the growing noise surrounding the 23-year-old midfielder has not gone unnoticed in Spain and according to the highly regarded outlet Diario AS, there is indeed legitimate interest from within the Santiago Bernabéu.
The report states that Real Madrid have identified Fernández as a long-term target who could strengthen their midfield for years to come. With Luka Modrić and Toni Kroos approaching the twilight of their careers, and the future of some current midfielders uncertain, Los Blancos are actively planning for the next generation. Enzo, who burst onto the global scene with his outstanding performances for Argentina at the 2022 World Cup, is seen as a player with the technical skill, tactical intelligence, and temperament to fit into Real Madrid’s evolving midfield alongside the likes of Jude Bellingham, Eduardo Camavinga, and Aurélien Tchouaméni.
What makes the situation more intriguing is that Fernández himself appears open if not eager to make the switch to Spain. In a recent interview with Los Edul, the Chelsea midfielder gave a glimpse into his admiration for the La Liga club. While speaking casually about his time off the pitch, he revealed that he regularly plays EA Sports FC (formerly FIFA) on PlayStation with fellow Argentines Alejandro Garnacho of Manchester United and Exequiel Palacios of Bayer Leverkusen. When asked which team they usually choose to play with, Fernández smiled and responded without hesitation: “Real Madrid, always Real Madrid.” Though said in a lighthearted context, the comment has sparked plenty of speculation, especially when taken alongside growing reports of interest from Madrid.
Despite the mutual interest, any potential move is far from straightforward. The primary obstacle is Chelsea’s valuation of the player. The London club reportedly has no intention of negotiating unless an offer starts at €120 million. This high asking price reflects both the amount Chelsea themselves paid to Benfica to secure Fernández’s signature in January 2023 and the lengthy contract that binds him to Stamford Bridge until the summer of 2032.
Chelsea view Enzo as a central figure in their long-term project. Despite a turbulent season filled with inconsistency and managerial changes, the club still sees him as a cornerstone of their rebuild. His leadership qualities, vision, and passing range have already made him one of the most reliable players in their squad. Letting him go would send a mixed message to fans and investors alike unless the offer is truly irresistible.
There’s also the issue of Financial Fair Play (FFP). Real Madrid are typically careful with their spending, and while they are one of the wealthiest clubs in the world, splashing €120 million on a single player is a significant decision, particularly with other potential moves such as the long-anticipated arrival of Kylian Mbappé also under consideration. The club must weigh its priorities carefully, especially if it hopes to maintain financial balance while reshaping the squad.
Nevertheless, the timing may work in Fernández’s favor. Real Madrid are in the process of assembling a new generation of stars. The potential addition of a young, battle-tested midfielder who already has World Cup and Champions League experience could be too tempting to pass up. And from the player’s perspective, the opportunity to wear the famous white shirt and compete for the biggest titles in world football is a dream few would turn down.
For now, Fernández remains committed to Chelsea, at least publicly. He continues to perform professionally on the pitch, even as rumors swirl around him. But if Real Madrid decide to make a formal approach and meet Chelsea’s demands or negotiate a creative deal structure this is a transfer that could quickly gain momentum.
