With José Mourinho taking charge at Real Madrid and reportedly being given full control over transfer decisions, it has been fascinating to watch the moves the Spanish giants have already started making during the summer window.

A €150 million bid for Julián Álvarez may have been more of a statement than a serious attempt, but Real Madrid’s interest in Bayern Munich’s Michael Olise was genuine. However, the club eventually accepted that the French winger was not available at any price.

West Ham’s Mateus Fernandes was also on Real Madrid’s radar as a potential target. However, it now appears that Mourinho’s compatriot prefers a move to Tottenham, believing the London club could provide him with a better platform for development.

Although that pursuit looks to have fallen through, it has created an opportunity for Real Madrid to begin official discussions with one of Mourinho’s former clubs, Chelsea, over a possible deal for vice-captain Enzo Fernández.

The Argentine midfielder was forced to issue a public apology earlier this year after comments suggesting he could imagine himself living in Madrid were viewed as a subtle invitation for Real Madrid to make a move.

Reports now suggest that following Chelsea’s failure to secure European football, Fernández is prepared to push for a transfer to the Spanish capital before the new season begins.

Chelsea remain in control

Despite Fernández’s ambitions, Chelsea are in a strong position regarding his future.

New Blues boss Xabi Alonso is unlikely to approve the sale of one of the club’s key players to Real Madrid — especially to a side that dismissed him during the 2025/26 campaign. However, Alonso still maintains great respect for José Mourinho, who coached him during his playing career at the Santiago Bernabéu.

Another major factor is Fernández’s long-term contract, which runs until 2032. Chelsea are also not under financial pressure to sell, meaning they have no reason to accept an offer unless it meets their demands.

The biggest challenge for Chelsea is the player’s clear desire to leave West London and begin a new chapter with his family elsewhere.

Barcelona’s title triumph adds pressure

After another underwhelming season for Real Madrid — which started with Alonso in charge and ended with former Madrid midfielder Álvaro Arbeloa taking over, another player who worked under Mourinho at the club — major changes were expected both on and off the pitch.

Barcelona’s historic LaLiga title victory, secured by defeating Real Madrid in El Clásico, was likely the final blow for president Florentino Pérez.

The reason behind Real Madrid’s interest in Fernández is clear. Both Pérez and Mourinho see him as a player who could help restore domestic dominance and potentially strengthen their pursuit of another Champions League trophy.

Only Chelsea’s main striker João Pedro managed to score more goals than the outstanding midfielder’s tally of 15, while the Argentine also contributed seven assists — putting him just behind Pedro Neto, who recorded 10.

Fernández’s influence in the attacking third was also clear, as his 1,026 passes into the final third were nearly 300 more than the next-best Chelsea player (732). His 98 chances created was another team-leading figure, highlighting his importance in creating opportunities.

Enzo’s complete midfield performance

Only Trevoh Chalobah and Moisés Caicedo attempted more than Fernández’s 2,850 total passes, while his 85.89% pass completion rate showed his consistency and reliability in possession.

His defensive contribution was equally impressive, with 200 ball recoveries and 458 attempted duels proving his ability to compete physically. Even in the air, Fernández ranked among Chelsea’s top performers, with 72 aerial duels attempted — placing him inside the club’s top five in that category.

With 24 interceptions, 15 headed clearances, and 76 attempted tackles, Fernández has shown his ability to influence matches from the heart of midfield. He not only controls the rhythm and tempo of games but also has the quality to push forward and support the attack when required.

Losing a player who provides such a complete contribution would be a major setback for Chelsea. Even if the club received a significant transfer fee, finding another player with Fernández’s level of quality and all-round ability could be extremely difficult.

While Argentina’s World Cup campaign is ongoing, the situation can remain on hold for now. However, once Fernández returns to club duty, both sides will need to address the situation and reach a final decision.

If the midfielder does eventually leave Chelsea, the club’s new season could begin under the shadow of his departure. Meanwhile, Real Madrid would be delighted at the opportunity to strengthen their squad and challenge Barcelona’s dominance once again following major changes to both their coaching staff and squad.