Transfers
Real Madrid shift focus to Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez
Real Madrid have turned their primary summer target from Michael Olise to Enzo Fernandez, with the Spanish club now listing the Chelsea midfielder as a top priority after Bayern Munich refused to sell the France international.
Madrid had previously identified Bayern forward Michael Olise as their main target and were prepared to offer up to €220 million for the winger, but Bayern indicated they are not ready to part with the player.
According to AS, Real Madrid now consider Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez a top midfield option, ranking him ahead of Ayyoub Bouaddi, Felix Nmecha and Mateus Fernandes because of his greater top‑level experience.
Manager Jose Mourinho is reported to admire Fernandez for his defensive qualities and leadership, and the 25‑year‑old has expressed openness to a move after comments that previously earned him a two‑game suspension last season.
Chelsea, whose manager Xabi Alonso is eager to continue working with the former Benfica star, can entertain offers exceeding €100 million, while the club retains a strong negotiating position with Fernandez having six years remaining on his contract.
Madrid intend to fund the potential signing by selling one of their French midfielders, Aurelien Tchouameni or Eduardo Camavinga, both of whom have already been linked with Manchester United.
The arrival of Enzo Fernandez would complement the expected addition of Bernardo Silva, who is set to join Real Madrid on a free transfer from Manchester City at the end of the month, forming a new‑look midfield for Los Blancos.