Chelsea star set to hand in surprise transfer request after reported fall out
Enzo Fernandez is reportedly prepared to take the nuclear option to secure a dream move to Real Madrid, with the Argentine midfielder set to submit a formal transfer request to the Chelsea hierarchy.
According to the Spanish television programme El Chiringuito (as reported by Goal), the 25-year-old has decided to stop dropping hints and instead take a “decisive stance” to facilitate his exit from Stamford Bridge.
The report suggests that Fernandez views a move to the Santiago Bernabéu as his priority and is willing to force Chelsea’s hand to ensure the deal progresses this summer.
Enzo Fernandez punished by Chelsea for international break remarks
The relationship between Fernandez and Chelsea has soured significantly following the March international break.
The midfielder was handed a two-match internal suspension by manager Liam Rosenior after “crossing a line” during a series of public comments.
During these interactions, Fernandez expressed a desire to live in Madrid, citing the language and culture as a perfect fit for his family.
These remarks, coming at a time when Chelsea had just suffered a humiliating 8-2 aggregate exit from the Champions League at the hands of Paris Saint-Germain, were deemed “disappointing” by Rosenior.
Consequently, the Argentine was axed from the squad for the FA Cup quarter-final against Port Vale and will also miss this weekend’s critical Premier League clash against Manchester City.
Enzo Fernandez’s time at Chelsea coming to an end?
Since his British-record £106.8 million move from Benfica in January 2023, Fernandez has been a central figure in the Chelsea project.
In the current 2025/26 campaign, he has registered 12 goals and 6 assists across 46 appearances, often wearing the captain’s armband in the absence of Reece James.
However, despite his individual quality, Chelsea’s lack of consistent success has reportedly left the midfielder disillusioned.
El Chiringuito explains that the main hurdle remains Chelsea’s staggering valuation, which could reach €150 million (£131m).
Real Madrid are reportedly aware of Chelsea’s firm stance, backed by a contract that runs until 2032, and may intentionally delay a formal bid until the final week of August to pressure the London club into lowering their demands.
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