Real Madrid ends pursuit of Enzo Fernández, cites high cost

Real Madrid officially announced on 3 July that it will not make an offer for Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernández. The club said no direct or indirect talks have taken place with Chelsea and that it will focus on other midfield targets. The decision was driven by the €121 million fee Chelsea paid to acquire the Argentine in January 2023 and Fernández’s contract extension with the London club through 2033, which gives Chelsea full control over any negotiations.

Fernández, 25, recorded 24 goals and 24 assists for Chelsea over the 2024/25 and 2025/26 seasons. Real Madrid expressed respect for both Chelsea and the player while confirming it will explore alternatives that better suit its financial and sporting plans.