Real Madrid are not willing to meet Chelsea’s current asking price for Enzo Fernandez, who is keen to leave the club after they failed to qualify for Europe.
Chelsea are demanding a fee of £120m for Fernandez, who has been a key figure since his arrival from Benfica in January 2023.
The Argentina international scored 15 goals in all competitions last season, but is keen to quit Stamford Bridge after a disappointing season for the Blues.
Real Madrid are interested in the World Cup winner, but not at the current price tag. The Spaniards are not willing to meet that fee without substantial sales, and view Manchester City midfielder Rodri as a more cost-effective target.
Fernandez’s agent, Javier Pastore, is exploring options for the midfielder, predominantly a move to the Bernabeu.
The 25-year-old appeared to wave to the Chelsea fans after the club’s final league fixture at Sunderland, and expressed interest in living in Spain earlier in the campaign. He was dropped from the squad for two games as a result of the comments.
Manchester City have also been linked with Fernandez, a rumour that has accelerated ahead of the imminent announcement of Enzo Maresca as the club’s new manager.
However, the ex-Chelsea coach is instead prioritising a deal for Elliot Anderson, of Nottingham Forest.
