Real Madrid identify Enzo Fernandez 'Plan B' signing

Cameron Smith

5 Apr 2026 05:21 CDT
4 min read

Enzo Fernandez has admitted he would like to move to Madrid — © IMAGO

Real Madrid have reportedly identified Paris Saint-Germain superstar Vitinha as their Plan B option if they are unable to finalise a deal for Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez this summer.

Article continues under the video

Alvaro Arbeloa’s side are expected to sign at least one new central midfielder during the 2026 summer transfer window, after failing to replace Luka Modric last year, and Fernandez has emerged as their priority target in recent weeks.

The Argentina international still has six years remaining on his current contract at Chelsea, but he has dropped several hints that he could depart Stamford Bridge this summer and it’s understood that he would like to join Real Madrid ahead of the 2026-27 season.

Fernandez has been suspended by Chelsea following his recent antics, with the 25-year-old unavailable for selection for the 7-0 win over Port Vale or their clash against Manchester City next Sunday, and this has added further fuel to speculation that he could depart.

However, Chelsea have no intention of allowing the midfielder to leave the club unless they receive a substantial transfer fee, with rumours suggesting that Real Madrid may be required to submit an offer worth over €120 million to secure his signature this summer.

This could be out of their reach and Los Blancos have now earmarked the aforementioned Vitinha as their dream alternative, according to Fichajes.

The Portugal star has been a standout performer since his arrival at PSG and he has been linked with a move to the Bernabeu for several months amid his immense form under Luis Enrique. However, he recently ruled out a transfer to the Spanish giants in favour of extending his stay at PSG.

Enzo Fernandez latest

News that Real Madrid are beginning to search for alternatives to Fernandez comes after his agent, Javier Pastore, slammed Chelsea’s decision to sanction his client for his recent comments.

Speaking to The Athletic, Pastore said: “We don’t understand the punishment because he doesn’t mention any club or say he wants to leave Chelsea, far from it; he only mentions Madrid, the city, because he was asked which European city he’d like to live in one day, and he said Madrid because of the language … at no point does he say he wants to leave Chelsea or London.

“He’s not disrespecting anyone … The punishment is completely unfair - banning the player for two matches, which moreover are also absolutely crucial for Chelsea because qualification for the Champions League is at stake and he is one of the team’s most important players.

“I think it’s far too harsh given Chelsea’s current situation, and there’s no real reason or justification for why he’s been banned … I understand the club’s situation, but I don’t understand the sanction.”

Fernandez has scored eight goals and provided three assists in 30 Premier League games so far this season, and his Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) currently stands at €83m.

The FootballTransfers app

Check out FootballTransfers' new app for all of football's big storylines, transfer rumours and exclusive news in one convenient place directly on your mobile device.

The FootballTransfers app is available in the Apple App Store. Download here:

•App Store