Enzo Fernandez bombshell: Chelsea transfer race heats up as talks confirmed

Cameron Smith

16 Jan 2026 12:49 GMT
4 min read

Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez is set to be at the heart of a major transfer battle this summer amid interest from both Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid.

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The Argentina international still has six-and-a-half years remaining on his current contract at Stamford Bridge, however his long-term future in west London has been called into the question following the recent departure of Enzo Maresca.

Current ETV

Enzo Fernández

M, DM (C)

Chelsea

Enzo Fernández

M, DM (C)

Chelsea

ETV Range

€73.4M - €89.7M

It’s understood that Fernandez had a close relationship with Maresca, and the Italian’s exit by mutual consent on New Year’s Day has led to renewed speculation that he could look to leave Chelsea in 2026.

Fernandez is expected to play a key role under new boss Liam Rosenior, although the ex-Strasbourg manager is known to be a huge admirer of Andrey Santos, which could potentially impact the Argentine’s status as one of Chelsea’s most important players.

French publication L’Equipe have confirmed that PSG are keeping close tabs on Fernandez’s situation at Stamford Bridge ahead of a potential deal this summer, while Real Madrid have now rekindled their interest in the 24-year-old.

That is according to Argentine outlet TyC Sports, who report that Fernandez is still on Los Blancos’ transfer radar as they continue to search for a replacement for Toni Kroos, who retired back in 2024.

Enzo Fernandez battle

Reports state that Fernandez has been earmarked as a key target by the Real Madrid hierarchy, while the Spanish giants are also monitoring several alternative options, including the likes of Adam Wharton, Kees Smit and Angelo Stiller.

However, they could be set to miss out on Fernandez’s signature as PSG prepare to accelerate their pursuit of the Chelsea superstar, as per Argentine journalist Uriel Iugt.

He posted on X: “PSG has Enzo Fernandez in its sights for the upcoming season.

“The interest is concrete and so far there has only been an informal contact with his entourage. The French club knows that his departure from Chelsea will not be easy.”

While PSG have initiated early talks with Fernandez’s representatives, an agreement hasn’t been reached and Real Madrid will therefore still have the opportunity to complete a deal for the Chelsea midfielder later this year.

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