Real Madrid have categorically denied any intention of trying to sign Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez this summer. The Spanish club issued a statement directly addressing widespread reports that linked the Argentina international with a move to the capital.
This firm denial comes despite well-placed sources suggesting that Fernandez himself is keen on departing Stamford Bridge. Those reports indicated his desire to join Real Madrid, following the Blues’ failure to secure European qualification last season.
Real Madrid Issues Strong Denial
Real Madrid’s official statement, which was released on Friday, insisted that the various reports circulating “do not correspond to reality”. The club’s communication directly addressed the widespread speculation that had linked the Argentina international with a move to the Spanish capital.
The comprehensive statement detailed their position: “In light of the reports and statements that have appeared in recent days regarding an alleged interest from Real Madrid in the player Enzo Fernandez, the club wishes to state that it has not made any effort, either direct or indirect, to sign the aforementioned player and, likewise, has no intention of undertaking such an operation.”
This statement clarifies that Real Madrid has not engaged in any direct approach for Fernandez. It also confirms that no indirect efforts have been made by the club to secure his services. Crucially, Real Madrid also explicitly stated it has no future intention of undertaking such a transfer operation.
Chelsea, for their part, have also confirmed that they have not received any club-to-club approach from Real for Fernandez. This confirmation from Chelsea aligns with Real Madrid’s strong declaration of no active interest or intent in a transfer.
The 15-time European champions also took the opportunity to express their “utmost respect for Enzo Fernandez, a great footballer whose career and quality are widely known”. This sentiment was also extended towards Chelsea FC, acknowledging them as “a club with which it maintains an excellent institutional relationship.”
Real Madrid’s statement further elaborated on their institutional principles: “Precisely because of the respect that an entity like Chelsea FC deserves and because of the principles of institutional loyalty that have always governed the actions of Real Madrid, the club considers it necessary to categorically deny speculations that are unfounded and do not correspond to reality.” The club “regrets that, despite the clarity of the facts and the lack of any action on the part of the club, information continues to be disseminated that does not correspond to reality and that only contributes to generating confusion among fans and unnecessarily harming the entities and people involved.”
Chelsea’s Valuation and Player’s Past Remarks
Despite the speculation, Chelsea have valued the 25-year-old midfielder at £120m, should any serious interest eventually materialise. However, it is understood that the Premier League club is not actively looking to sell Fernandez at this time.
The Blues would be content to retain him as a key player under their new coach, Xabi Alonso. This stance indicates their intention to keep the midfielder integral to their plans.
Fernandez’s future at Chelsea has been a topic of discussion previously. Former boss Liam Rosenior handed the player a two-game suspension in April. This disciplinary action came after Fernandez made comments indicating he did not know whether he would remain at Chelsea next season.
He also reportedly stated that he would “love” to live in Madrid, adding to the speculation around his long-term prospects at Stamford Bridge. Fernandez was signed by Chelsea from Benfica in February 2023 for a then-British record fee of £107m.
World Cup and Club Contributions
The midfielder remains an important player for Argentina at this summer’s World Cup. He played in Argentina’s first two World Cup group games and is expected to return to the starting line-up for Friday’s round of 32 game with Cape Verde.
His move to Chelsea came shortly after he played a significant role in helping Argentina secure their third World Cup title at the end of 2022. Since joining Chelsea, Fernandez has contributed to the club’s success.
He has gone on to win the Europa Conference League and the Club World Cup with Chelsea. Last season, he showcased his attacking prowess by scoring 15 goals in all competitions for the London club.
It is worth noting that Real Madrid have already completed a transfer with Chelsea this summer. They acquired Spain left-back Marc Cucurella in a deal worth up to £51.8m.
Ultimately, Real Madrid’s emphatic denial clarifies their position regarding Enzo Fernandez, stating no intention or efforts to sign him. Chelsea, on their part, have confirmed no approach and are prepared to keep the midfielder who remains an important figure for both club and country.