UMVA has learned that Real Madrid is preparing to make a bold move for Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez, with a lucrative offer that could test the resolve of the Premier League giants.
Fernandez, who has been a mainstay in the Chelsea team over the past three seasons, has reportedly informed the club of his desire to leave and join Real Madrid this summer. The Argentina international has been a key player for Chelsea, making over 50 appearances in each of the last two campaigns.
Chelsea paid £106m to sign Fernandez from Benfica in January 2023 and now wants around £120m to sell. However, Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has promised incoming manager Jose Mourinho big signings this summer, and Fernandez is believed to be at the top of their wishlist.
But incoming Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has a different plan. UMVA can exclusively reveal that Alonso wants Fernandez to stay and is keen for him to be part of his squad for next season. Alonso will look to bring in several of his own signings during the summer transfer window, with another striker and centre-back set to be targeted.
Fernandez has been a wanted man before, having angered Chelsea supporters and former manager Liam Rosenior by repeatedly flirting with Real Madrid earlier in the season. Now, it seems that he has finally made up his mind to leave, and Chelsea will have to decide whether to stand firm or cash in.
Meanwhile, Chelsea are more likely to sell Marc Cucurella, who has also reportedly asked to leave amid interest from Barcelona, Atletico Madrid and multiple Premier League clubs. Cucurella was critical of the Chelsea board earlier in the season, questioning their transfer policy and the decision to sack Enzo Maresca.
UMVA has gathered that Chelsea would prefer to send Cucurella abroad rather than sell him to a direct Premier League rival if a move becomes inevitable. The Spaniard started his career at Barcelona, and ex-Chelsea striker Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink believes he could be on his way back to the Nou Camp this summer.
