Real Madrid alert as Chelsea open door to Fernandez sale

Real Madrid have been handed a significant boost in their long-term midfield plans after indications emerged that Chelsea could be prepared to sell Enzo Fernandez in 2026.

Sources close to the situation say the Spanish giants are closely monitoring developments, viewing the Argentina international as a potential solution to a growing structural gap in their midfield.

The 25-year-old has been a central figure at Stamford Bridge since his £106.8 million move from Benfica in February 2023 and remains one of Chelsea’s most consistent performers.

However, despite his importance, Fernandez is no longer considered completely untouchable by the London club.

Chelsea signal willingness to negotiate

According to transfer insiders, Chelsea have sent early signals through intermediaries that a sale could be considered if their valuation is met.

While the club still rates Fernandez highly, financial strategy and squad recalibration could open the door to a blockbuster deal.

Real Madrid sources suggest the player’s long-term future at Chelsea is not guaranteed beyond the current cycle.

Fernandez is understood to be open to a move to Madrid, having already won major honours at both club and international level, including the 2022 World Cup, the 2024 Copa América, the UEFA Conference League and the 2025 Club World Cup.

Any deal, however, would require a fee among the highest ever paid in La Liga, given Chelsea’s original investment.

Madrid look to correct Zubimendi misstep

Interest in Fernandez is also driven by internal reflection at the Bernabéu. Madrid executives believe the club missed an opportunity by failing to secure Martin Zubimendi before his move from Real Sociedad to Arsenal in the summer of 2025.

Spanish reports previously indicated that then-coach Xabi Alonso had pushed for Zubimendi’s signing, with the midfielder willing to wait for Madrid.

The move never materialised, and Arsenal capitalised, with Zubimendi quickly establishing himself as a key figure in the Premier League.

Florentino Pérez has since accepted that Madrid lack a controlling midfielder capable of dictating tempo and providing balance. Fernandez is now viewed as a profile fit to address that deficiency.