Jose Mourinho is targeting Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez as a marquee addition to his Real Madrid squad, but the Spanish giants may need to offload players first to facilitate the deal, according to ESPN.
Enzo Fernandez: Real Madrid's Top Target
The Argentine World Cup winner, who cost Chelsea £106 million in January 2023, has publicly flirted with a move to the Spanish capital. He praised Madrid as a place to live and refused to commit his future to the Blues, leading to a suspension by then-manager Liam Rosenior last season. Mourinho has identified Fernandez as a key midfield target to strengthen his ranks.
Potential Departures to Fund the Move
Real Madrid have put further midfield arrivals on hold until they sanction a sale. Eduardo Camavinga could be a high-profile exit, with several English clubs interested, though the Frenchman prefers to stay. The club also confirmed Dani Ceballos's departure on Friday. Aurelien Tchouameni is another asset under consideration; Manchester United are keen, but Real view him as their only specialist holding midfielder, which may keep him at the club unless a significant offer arrives.
Mourinho's Summer Spending Spree
Mourinho has been active early in his second stint at Real Madrid, raiding English clubs. The club spent £51 million on Chelsea left-back Marc Cucurella as part of a defensive rebuild. Cucurella has publicly backed a move for Fernandez, telling Marca: "He's a great player and a friend of mine. He congratulated me on the signing. I hope it happens. I would be very happy. We were very happy at Chelsea, and to have the opportunity to both sign for Real Madrid in the same summer… I hope he's lucky and becomes a Real Madrid player."
In addition, Ibrahima Konate joined on a free transfer after failing to agree a new deal at Liverpool, and Bernardo Silva arrived on a free after his Manchester City contract expired. Dutch right-back Denzel Dumfries will also join to add quality in that position.
Fernandez's Impact and Chelsea's Stance
Fernandez has continued to showcase his quality at Chelsea, but the lure of Real Madrid could prove too strong. Mourinho's midfield rebuild is a priority, and Fernandez is seen as the ideal fit to lead the new era at the Bernabeu.
