Chelsea Set Record-Breaking £102m Price Tag on Midfielder Amid Real Madrid Interest – Report | OneFootball

Chelsea Send Clear Message to Real Madrid Over Enzo Fernandez Valuation

In a significant development ahead of what promises to be a busy summer transfer window, Chelsea have made their position clear regarding the future of Argentine midfielder Enzo Fernandez. According to a report from Mundo Deportivo, the West London club are demanding in excess of €121 million (£102m) for the 24-year-old – a figure that surpasses what they originally paid Benfica to secure his services just over a year ago.

This valuation would see Fernandez remain the most expensive Argentine footballer in history and eclipse even Eden Hazard’s £100 million move to Madrid in 2019, still Chelsea’s record sale.

Real Madrid’s Interest and Xabi Alonso’s Plans

Following a trophyless campaign, Real Madrid are poised for a new era under incoming manager Xabi Alonso. Although blessed with a highly regarded midfield, Los Blancos see Enzo Fernandez as an ideal piece to complete the puzzle. With Carlo Ancelotti stepping down and Madrid seeking renewed dominance, Fernandez’s technical skill, physicality, and proven international pedigree make him an attractive target.

TEAMtalk originally reported Madrid’s interest back in March, with sources revealing Fernandez would “be very interested in a move to Madrid if the opportunity presented itself.” Further reports out of Spain this month suggest the midfielder may have even instructed his agent to facilitate a move, while house-hunting in the Spanish capital is rumoured to be underway, allegedly with input from international teammate Julian Alvarez.

Photo: IMAGO

Despite the flirtations, Mundo Deportivo insists that “the truth is that Chelsea are not willing to let the Argentine leave and would ask for more than the €121million they paid Benfica.” That would push the cost of any deal to well beyond Madrid’s current valuation, making negotiations highly complex unless one party budges.

Fernandez’s Contributions and Contract Security

Since arriving at Stamford Bridge in January 2023, Fernandez has been a consistent performer in a side that has often struggled for cohesion. In 106 appearances for the club, he has contributed 14 goals and 19 assists, underlining his all-round midfield presence.

This past Premier League season alone, he scored six goals and laid on seven assists in 35 appearances – a decent return given Chelsea’s often erratic form. Crucially, Fernandez is tied down on a contract that runs until 2032, leaving Chelsea under no immediate pressure to sell, either financially or strategically.

Head coach Enzo Maresca, newly installed and preparing for his first season in charge, has already indicated that Fernandez is central to his plans. “He scores goals but has important numbers with assists. I think next season he can improve his numbers even more,” Maresca said last week.

Such a public endorsement, paired with Chelsea’s steep valuation, makes it evident that any deal will not be on Madrid’s terms alone.

Record Deal Would Reshape Chelsea’s Transfer Strategy

Should Madrid meet Chelsea’s valuation, the Blues would receive a financial boost that could be pivotal for their summer recruitment drive, especially under the constraints of Financial Fair Play regulations. However, replacing Fernandez would not be straightforward, especially given his age, versatility and experience at both club and international level.

Photo: IMAGO

Any funds recouped would need to be reinvested wisely by Chelsea’s recruitment team, who have come under fire in recent seasons for erratic spending and questionable acquisitions. In contrast, Maresca’s appointment signals a desire for structure, clarity and tactical identity – something Fernandez fits into seamlessly.

Unless Madrid are prepared to make Fernandez one of the most expensive signings in history, a move seems unlikely – at least for now.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

As a Chelsea supporter, this story lands with mixed emotions. Enzo Fernandez has been one of the few bright lights in an otherwise inconsistent team. His ability to dictate tempo, switch play and chip in with key contributions is rare, especially at just 24. With Enzo Maresca now at the helm, we’re finally moving towards a clear tactical direction, and Fernandez could be a central pillar in that system.

The £102m price tag isn’t just a deterrent, it’s a statement. It tells Madrid, and anyone else watching, that we’re no longer a club that rolls over for elite European suitors. That said, Real Madrid under Xabi Alonso will be persuasive. The lure of playing at the Bernabéu, competing for every major title and linking up with a midfield that includes Bellingham and Camavinga will be tempting.

Still, Fernandez is tied down until 2032. That’s a long-term commitment, and unless he pushes aggressively for the move – which isn’t yet confirmed – Chelsea are in control. If we want to become contenders again, keeping our best players and building around them is the only path forward.

Should Madrid come back with a ridiculous offer, yes, maybe we listen. But for now, Fernandez should stay. He’s part of the project, and under Maresca, he might flourish like never before.