Enzo Fernandez could be heading towards a Chelsea exit, with agent Javier Pastore confirming that options are being explored. Despite Fernandez holding a long-term contract until 2032, Pastore stated that discussions are under way over a possible move, while stressing that no agreement has yet been reached with any club.
The midfielder has previously spoken warmly about Real Madrid, which increased speculation around a potential transfer. Chelsea are expected to demand around 120m if Fernandez asks to leave, reflecting his status as a major investment and a regular starter since arriving at Stamford Bridge in 2023.
Pastore outlined Fernandez’s current mindset during the World Cup, explaining that competitive duty remains the priority. Pastore told
Marca: "The player is calmly thinking about the national team, he is playing in a World Cup, he is very close to reaching the round of 16. He is only thinking about that, and we are looking at possibilities to leave Chelsea, but there is nothing firm or confirmed at any club. "
The World Cup schedule means Fernandez is still expected to report for Chelsea pre-season once Argentina’s campaign ends. Club plans continue as normal, with Mauricio Pochettino’s squad set to gather for preparation matches, even as questions over Fernandez’s long-term future stay unresolved.
The Blues will start pre-season on Thursday 9 July. pic.twitter.com/AWh0j2axq6Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) July 1, 2026
Fernandez joined Chelsea in January 2023 on an eight-and-a-half-year contract, in a British record deal at that time. Since then, Fernandez has played 169 matches in all competitions, becoming a central figure in midfield. However, this season has brought constant rumours about a possible departure from Stamford Bridge.
Speculation accelerated in April when Fernandez publicly indicated interest in joining Real Madrid. Those remarks led then-head coach Liam Rosenior to leave Fernandez out of the squad for two matches. The decision highlighted Chelsea’s sensitivity to transfer noise surrounding a player tied down for several more years.
Links with Real Madrid have also grown through Marc Cucurella, who recently moved from Chelsea to the Spanish champions. After arriving in Madrid, Cucurella spoke about wanting to see Fernandez join at the Santiago Bernabeu. That comment matched existing reports that Real Madrid are closely monitoring Fernandez’s situation in London.
Pastore expanded on why Madrid holds specific appeal for Fernandez, noting friendships and personal ties in the city. Asked about Fernandez’s public praise for Real Madrid, Pastore said: "He has many friends there, and he is very close friends with Julian Alvarez, and in the end, whenever they can spend time together, they are together there. And I also live in Madrid. Every time he travelled, he travelled to see me and to sort out work-related matters, but besides that, who doesn't like Madrid? I never even played in Madrid. I even live there. "
Enzo Fernandez Chelsea Real Madrid transfer contract details
Any negotiation around Fernandez will be shaped by Chelsea’s strong contractual position and the scale of the fee. Media reports suggest the club would look for 120m if Fernandez pushes for a move, reflecting the investment made and the long time remaining on the current deal signed in 2023.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Club | Chelsea |
| Joined | January 2023 |
| Contract expiry | 2032 |
| Appearances for Chelsea | 169 |
| Reported asking price | 120m |
| Linked club | Real Madrid |
While transfer talk gathers pace, Pastore stressed that Fernandez’s focus remains on Argentina’s World Cup defence. Argentina are close to reaching the round of 16, and Fernandez is expected to stay fully engaged with national team duties. Any concrete movement on a transfer is therefore likely to follow the end of that tournament.
