Enzo Fernandez has spoken publicly about his Chelsea future for the first time since Real Madrid issued a statement denying any interest in signing the Argentine midfielder. The 25-year-old, who is currently competing at the World Cup with Argentina, acknowledged the speculation but insisted his focus remains on the tournament.
Real Madrid denies transfer interest
Last week, Real Madrid released a rare public statement categorically denying reports that they were pursuing Fernandez. The Spanish giants stated: 'Real Madrid wishes to express its utmost respect for Enzo Fernández, a great footballer whose career and quality are widely known, as well as for Chelsea FC, a club with which it maintains an excellent institutional relationship. Precisely because of the respect that an entity like Chelsea FC deserves and because of the principles of institutional loyalty that have always governed the actions of Real Madrid, the club considers it necessary to categorically deny speculations that are unfounded and do not correspond to reality.'
The denial came after reports suggested that Jose Mourinho, recently appointed as Real Madrid manager, was keen to bring Fernandez to the Spanish capital. Fernandez had long been seen as dreaming of a move to Real Madrid, and his agent Javier Pastore had stated last week that his client was 'exploring opportunities' to leave Stamford Bridge this summer.
Fernandez's World Cup heroics
Fernandez scored the winning goal as Argentina came from behind to beat Egypt and secure a place in the World Cup quarter-finals. Speaking after the match, he told DAZN: 'I have an incredible mix of feelings. I'm so grateful and privileged to be living these moments. I knew Lautaro was going to take the lead, and I got into the box. He crossed it, and I went in hard. I'm so happy to win, to help my teammates, my team, and to advance to the next round.'
When asked about his Chelsea future, Fernandez said: 'I'm not thinking about my future right now. I'm here living this incredible moment for me, and we'll see what happens after the World Cup.'
Chelsea's asking price
Chelsea signed Fernandez from Benfica in January 2023 for a then-British record fee of £106 million. The club is reportedly demanding a fee of £120 million to let the midfielder leave, according to sources close to the negotiations. However, with Real Madrid publicly ruling out a move, it remains unclear which clubs might be willing to meet Chelsea's valuation.
Argentina will face Switzerland in the quarter-finals, after Switzerland beat Colombia in a penalty shootout. The winner will take on either England or Norway for a place in the final, scheduled for next Sunday in New Jersey.
