Swap Deal? Real Madrid Eye Chelsea Star Fernandez

Yahoo

14-03-2025

Real Madrid are closely monitoring Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez as they assess their summer transfer plans. Sources indicate that while Fernandez is committed to the Stamford Bridge project, the lure of the Bernabeu could prove difficult to resist should an offer materialise.
Los Blancos remain focused on assembling a new generation of Galacticos capable of dominating LaLiga and European football for years to come. Having already secured the services of Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham in recent seasons, Real Madrid are now weighing up a move for the highly-rated Argentine midfielder.
Despite Madrid's interest, Chelsea are reluctant to sanction a sale. Fernandez remains a pivotal figure for Enzo Maresca, and the club are keen to build around the World Cup winner as they strive to return to the top of English football.
Fernandez arrived at Stamford Bridge in January 2023 for a then-club-record fee of £107m. The 24-year-old signed a lengthy contract until 2032, ensuring Chelsea hold a strong negotiating position. Consequently, any deal would likely require a significant bid from Real Madrid, possibly surpassing the sum Chelsea paid to Benfica.
TEAMtalk sources confirm that, while Fernandez is content at Chelsea, a formal approach from Madrid could turn his head. 'If a call comes from Madrid, it will be hard for him to ignore,' an insider revealed.
A straight cash deal could be financially challenging for Real Madrid, given their extensive transfer ambitions this summer. However, sources suggest a swap deal could be explored, with Aurelien Tchouameni emerging as a potential makeweight.
Chelsea are long-term admirers of Tchouameni and are eager to strengthen their defensive midfield options, particularly as Romeo Lavia has struggled with injuries. Madrid could use this interest to facilitate a deal for Fernandez, should both clubs find a mutually beneficial agreement.
Tchouameni remains a key player for Carlo Ancelotti, and Madrid would be reluctant to part with the French international unless they believe Fernandez offers a significant upgrade. However, Chelsea's midfield rebuild—bolstered by the expected return of Andrey Santos from his loan at Strasbourg—means they have room for flexibility should a deal make sense.
With Fernandez's future uncertain, Chelsea are considering alternative midfield reinforcements. Manchester United's Kobbie Mainoo is a player of interest, with the Blues keeping a close eye on his development.
Meanwhile, Andrey Santos is set to return after a successful loan spell in Ligue 1. The young Brazilian is expected to push for first-team minutes, creating a potential selection headache for Maresca. If Chelsea fail to secure additional midfield depth, keeping Fernandez could be imperative to their ambitions next season.
While Real Madrid's admiration for Fernandez is clear, negotiations remain in the early stages. If Chelsea stand firm, Los Blancos may have to reconsider their approach, with a straight cash deal appearing unlikely at this stage.