Chelsea have set a £120 million price tag for Argentine midfielder Enzo Fernandez as transfer interest grows amid the club's failure to qualify for European football next season [1, 2]. Fernandez, who joined Chelsea from Benfica in February 2023 for £107 million, is under contract until 2032 [1, 2].
The 24-year-old midfielder scored 15 goals and provided 7 assists last season, contributing 19 goals and 17 assists in 117 Premier League appearances for the club [1, 2]. Chelsea would prefer to keep Fernandez but indicated they are open to offers that meet their valuation [1, 2].
Fernandez has made his intentions clear after hinting at unhappiness in a March interview, saying, "I'd like to live in Spain, I really like Madrid," which led to him being dropped for two matches by the club [2]. His agent, Javier Pastore, called the club’s punishment "completely unfair," explaining, "we don't understand the punishment because he doesn't mention any club or say he wants to leave Chelsea" [2].
Real Madrid has been identified as Fernandez's preferred next destination and is closely monitored by his agent [1, 2]. However, the Spanish giants are currently reluctant to meet Chelsea's asking price unless they raise funds through player sales. Their transfer plans also face uncertainty due to upcoming club presidential elections [1, 2].
Other clubs linked to Fernandez include Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain, although PSG have downplayed the chances of a move [1]. Manchester City appear to be prioritizing Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson but remain observers in Fernandez's situation [1].
Chelsea’s new manager Xabi Alonso, who took charge on July 1 with a four-year contract, is preparing for a squad rebuild after a disappointing season [2]. Chelsea are not under financial pressure to sell Fernandez but acknowledge that a sale could help fund Alonso’s project [2].
Fernandez is expected to report for preseason training this summer before any formal transfer request or move materializes [2].
