Enzo Fernandez: 'Chelsea tempted by big Real Madrid offer'
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Real Madrid are plotting a move to sign Chelsea star Enzo Fernandez as he could be allowed to leave Stamford Bridge this summer.
That is according to former Man United and Blackburn chief scout Mick Brown, who remains very well-connected within the game, as he exclusively told Football Insider that the 24-year-old has emerged as a surprise target for the Spanish giants this summer.
Fernandez is considered a key part of Enzo Maresca’s plans for the future, but it is believed a significant offer could tempt the Blues to sell.
The World Cup-winner has made 35 appearances so far this season, scoring five goals providing nine assists as the Blues aim for Champions League qualification.
Carlo Ancelotti’s side, meanwhile, are looking to reinforce their midfield options in the summer as they aim to replace the ageing Luca Modric.
This comes after Brown told Football Insider in February that Madrid want to sign Arsenal target Martin Zubimendi, in a potential stumbling block for the Gunners’ move.
Chelsea could accept ‘big offer’ for Enzo Fernandez
Fernandez is on a long contract at Stamford Bridge, with his current deal set to run until 2032 after signing a ten-year agreement in January 2023.
Brown, who has a wealth of experience in top-level player recruitment after over a decade at Man United during their most successful period, insisted it may take a big fee to tempt Chelsea to sell the midfielder, but it would not come as a surprise.
“Nothing that happens at Chelsea would surprise me,” he told Football Insider.
“Fernandez has been an important player for them this season and he’s very much a part of the long-term plans under Maresca.
“But if a big offer comes in for him, I don’t think it can be ruled out that they’d let him go.
“Real Madrid have been having a look at him, they’ve got their own issues in midfield and Modric is coming towards the end of his time there.
“So if they decide they want to make a move for Fernandez, I think Chelsea will listen to the offer.
“If it’s a big offer, they will be tempted because that’s what the plan is there, they’ve got replacements already contracted to the club.
“I must admit it surprised me that Real Madrid are looking at him, but it wouldn’t surprise me to see him make that move.
“I’ve said before – players usually find it very difficult to turn down Real Madrid when they come calling.“
Jadon Sancho future up in the air after Man United twist
Alongside potential departures in the summer, speculation about Jadon Sancho’s long-term future at Chelsea has been rife in recent weeks.
The Blues have an obligation to buy the 24-year-old for £25million at the end of the season, but could pay Man United a fee to cancel the agreement.
However, Football Insider exclusively revealed on 17 March that Chelsea will sign Sancho if they qualify for next season’s Champions League.
The winger has made 28 appearances across all competitions for Chelsea so far this term – notching two goals and six assists.
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The post Enzo Fernandez: 'Chelsea tempted by big Real Madrid offer' appeared first on Football Insider.
