Real Madrid plot move for £120m Chelsea star | OneFootball

Chelsea Set Steep Price Tag Amid Real Madrid Interest

Enzo Fernández’s name continues to dominate headlines as Real Madrid weigh up their options in midfield. The Argentine international, a pivotal figure at Chelsea, remains on the radar of Xabi Alonso, who sees him as an ideal addition to the Spanish side’s evolving midfield.

However, Chelsea’s stance is clear: Fernández is not for sale unless an extraordinary offer lands at Stamford Bridge. The London club, under Enzo Maresca’s management, has reportedly placed a £120 million valuation on the 24-year-old, effectively drawing a line in the sand.

This figure represents a significant increase on the £106.8 million Chelsea paid Benfica in January 2023 – a record-breaking deal at the time. With Fernández now regarded as integral to their rebuild, Chelsea are unwilling to entertain negotiations below their set threshold.

Real Madrid’s Pursuit Faces Financial Hurdles

Real Madrid have been tracking Fernández for several months, impressed by his consistency and versatility. But the financial parameters of any potential transfer present major complications.

With Jude Bellingham, Federico Valverde and Eduardo Camavinga already forming one of Europe’s most dynamic midfield trios, Madrid are reluctant to disrupt that balance. Any move for Fernández would likely require the club to offload players or restructure wages – a step that could test the patience of Florentino Pérez’s financial advisors.

Sources in Spain suggest that Real Madrid’s interest remains genuine but cautious. While Alonso is a known admirer of Fernández’s passing range and work rate, the club’s hierarchy is mindful of avoiding inflated deals reminiscent of past spending sprees.

Fernández’s Rising Stock and Premier League Influence

Since his arrival in the Premier League, Fernández has adapted swiftly to English football’s intensity. His tactical awareness, combined with his ability to dictate tempo from deep, has made him a cornerstone of Chelsea’s midfield.

In addition to domestic duties, Fernández’s performances in European competitions and with Argentina have further strengthened his reputation. At just 24, he embodies both present quality and future promise – precisely the profile Real Madrid typically target.

But Chelsea’s valuation reflects not just his ability, but also their broader ambition to rebuild around young, elite-level talent. Fernández’s partnership with Moisés Caicedo, and his leadership in possession, underline his importance to Maresca’s long-term project.

Future Outlook for Fernández and Chelsea

For now, the likelihood of a move remains slim. Chelsea’s hierarchy view Fernández as a central piece of their identity and have no desire to weaken their squad ahead of a crucial Premier League campaign.

Real Madrid, though not known for patience in the transfer market, may be forced to pivot elsewhere unless the situation changes. Paying in excess of £120 million for another midfielder, despite their financial muscle, appears a step too far in the current climate.

As things stand, Fernández’s future seems firmly tied to Stamford Bridge. Unless Real Madrid produce a bid that redefines market expectations, the Argentine appears set to continue as Chelsea’s midfield anchor – and one of the Premier League’s most coveted assets.