Real Madrid set to lose top midfield target to Pep Guardiola’s successor at Manchester City | OneFootball

Real Madrid could be facing a serious setback in their plans to strengthen the midfield this summer, with fresh reports suggesting that Enzo Fernandez is edging closer to a move to Manchester City instead.

According to journalist Florian Plettenberg, the possibility of the Argentine international leaving Chelsea is very real, with Manchester City appearing to ‘remain a concrete topic’ in the race for his signature.

The journalist explains that incoming City manager Enzo Maresca is pushing hard for the midfielder and views Fernandez as a profile currently missing from the squad. 

The Italian coach reportedly sees the World Cup winner as a key part of his future plans, especially since he knows him from his spell with the Stamford Bridge club.

On the other hand, Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain are both monitoring the situation closely, with the Spanish giants believed to be long-time admirers of the former Benfica midfielder.

Chelsea contract creates enormous problem

Enzo Fernandez could end up at Manchester City. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)

Despite the growing rumours surrounding a possible exit, convincing Chelsea to sell Fernandez will be extremely complicated for any club involved.

This is because the Argentine midfielder remains under contract until 2032, putting Chelsea in a very powerful negotiating position. 

Unlike many clubs forced into sales due to contract situations, the London side is under no pressure whatsoever to lower their demands.

That reality creates a major issue for Real Madrid, especially considering the financial package needed to complete such a deal. 

Chelsea paid a British-record £106.8 million to bring Fernandez to England and are determined not to accept any offer that would represent a financial loss.

A big problem for Real Madrid

Enzo Fernandez is ready to leave Chelsea. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

For Real Madrid, that asking price could become problematic since the Spanish side remain careful with their spending strategy.

At the same time, Manchester City appear far more prepared to enter a bidding war if Maresca identifies Fernandez as a priority signing for the next project.

Another important factor in this development is that  Fernandez is open to leaving Chelsea after the club failed to secure Champions League qualification. 

However, it must be noted that any move will depend on which club acts first with a concrete proposal.