Real Madrid's midfield dilemma: Camavinga refuses, Tchouameni eyed

Real Madrid have terminated 29‑year‑old midfielder Dani Ceballos’s contract by mutual agreement and are preparing for a post‑World Cup signing of Enzo Fernandez that will exceed €100 million, prompting the club to seek a midfielder exit before the summer window opens on Wednesday.

The club’s focus on departures follows the recent off‑loading of Ceballos, freeing a squad place and a wage bill. With the Enzo Fernandez deal expected to cost well over €100 million, Real Madrid must balance the books by selling a high‑profile midfielder.

Real Madrid appear to prefer off‑loading Eduardo Camavinga, whose role under manager Jose Mourinho has dwindled to an all‑time low after a dismal 2025‑26 season. Camavinga’s form and fitness struggles have left him on the fringes of the Bernabeu lineup.

Camavinga has publicly declared that a move away from the Bernabeu in 2026 would be “impossible”. Through his agents he reiterated that any sale would be “impossible”, emphasizing his focus on improving his situation in Madrid.

Despite Liverpool’s reported interest, the midfielder’s refusal limits Real Madrid’s options. Consequently the club have turned attention to Aurelien Tchouameni, who is attracting interest from Premier League sides Manchester United and Chelsea.

It remains unclear whether Tchouameni wishes to leave, but the expected resistance appears lower than Camavinga’s. Real Madrid therefore view him as the more viable candidate to generate the required transfer fee.

The summer transfer window opens on Wednesday, giving the Spanish giants a narrow timeframe to conclude a sale. Securing a departure for either midfielder will be crucial to fund the Enzo Fernandez acquisition and maintain squad balance.

If Camavinga stays, Real Madrid retain a player determined to revive his form, while Tchouameni’s exit could provide the financial relief needed for the €100 million signing. Both parties face a pivotal decision that will shape the club’s midfield composition for the coming season.