In what could be one of the most dramatic developments of the transfer window, Real Madrid have reportedly made discreet contact with Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernández, with discussions said to have progressed significantly behind closed doors.
The Spanish giants have long admired the 2022 World Cup winner and now seem eager to bring him to the Santiago Bernabéu as part of their long-term midfield rebuild.
Sources close to Real Madrid reveal that the club’s hierarchy sees Enzo as a perfect successor to their aging legends Luka Modrić and Toni Kroos. Since his high-profile move from Benfica to Chelsea in 2023, Fernández has consistently drawn praise across Europe for his tactical awareness, technical skill, and adaptability.
These attributes have now made him a top target for Madrid, who are planning a generational transition in their midfield.
However, just as talks were beginning to gain serious momentum, a surprising development from Chelsea has cast uncertainty over the potential deal. New head coach Enzo Maresca, who only recently took charge at Stamford Bridge, has reportedly stepped in to block the move.
In an urgent meeting with Chelsea’s board, Maresca was said to be firm in his position, declaring Enzo Fernández as “non-negotiable” and describing the Argentine as essential to the club’s future ambitions.
Maresca’s intervention has dramatically changed the landscape of the transfer. It is understood that he is determined to keep Fernández at the heart of his plans for the upcoming season, promising him a more significant role in the team and even considering shaping the entire midfield around the 23-year-old.
This bold stance has not only surprised Real Madrid officials but also caught Fernández himself off guard.
Despite Real Madrid’s interest, Fernández has not submitted any formal transfer request. Insiders suggest that while he is genuinely honored by Madrid’s pursuit, he did not expect Maresca to personally step in and prioritize him so early in his Chelsea reign.
His relationship with the new manager is said to be professional, but he was reportedly “shocked” by the firm resistance from within the club.
Real Madrid, meanwhile, remain focused on revamping their midfield for the future. Having already secured emerging talents like Eduardo Camavinga, Aurélien Tchouaméni, and Jude Bellingham, they believe Enzo could be the final piece in assembling a new world-class engine room.
As the summer transfer window intensifies, the situation is far from settled. All eyes will now be on Chelsea to see whether they can withstand Madrid’s potential follow-up offers, or if a staggering bid from Los Blancos could eventually force a change in stance at Stamford Bridge.
