Reports have emerged suggesting Chelsea would be ready to let Enzo Fernandez join Real Madrid on one condition.
Enzo Fernandez was signed by Chelsea almost three years ago now. The excitement of that transfer saga has remained unmatched. The Argentine was coming fresh off winning the World Cup with Argentina and was viewed by many as the one who would guide the Blues back to the top. Perhaps he has not been able to meet those expectations.
That being said, one cannot claim that Fernandez has not been a good signing for Chelsea. He has played constant football for the Blues since then. And while one can argue about the quality of his performances at times, there is no doubt that he has been one of the few leaders the club have right now, and a consistent provider of goals and assists.
Even this season, Fernandez has 8 goals and 4 assists to his name. It will be very interesting to see whether he can maintain this output, now that Enzo Maresca has been replaced by Liam Rosenior.
There have been some rumours that Fernandez might not be happy with the constant change of managers at Chelsea. We do not know if that is on the mark, but if so, it would be understandable. Rosenior is his fifth manager in less than three years since arriving at Stamford Bridge.
Naturally, there has been speculation regarding a potential Fernandez exit. Clubs like Real Madrid and PSG have been linked with him. Now, as reported by TEAMtalk, Dean Jones said:
"Real Madrid sources say the club have been given indications that Chelsea would be willing to sell Enzo Fernandez at the right price."
"The midfielder’s future at Stamford Bridge is uncertain beyond this season, and Madrid have been monitoring the situation closely."
"While some Chelsea players are considered untouchable, it is understood that the Argentina international is not entirely off-limits."
"Sources suggest that initial exploratory talks have hinted, via intermediaries, that Chelsea could become open to a summer deal if their valuation is met."
"The player joined Chelsea for £106.8million – so any transfer is going to become one of the most significant fees ever seen in La Liga."
Of course, you can say that about pretty much any Chelsea player. The club were believed to have paid around €121 million to sign Fernandez from Benfica though. So, any exit would involve one of the biggest transfer fees in history.
Real Madrid simply do not do such deals these days. So, chances of a move to Santiago Bernabeu seem slim. PSG might be willing to make a move of that magnitude though, if talks of their interest in Fernandez are accurate.
Of course, this is not the first time that Fernandez has been linked with a move away from Chelsea. So, let's wait and watch how things settle for him under Rosenior before making any predictions on his future.
Chelsea's lack of consistent success deserves mention in this respect as well. Sooner or later, all of their top players will consider leaving if things continue in this manner, something that the ownership does not seem to recognise. Long-term deals mean little in modern football when the talent wants out.