24 Jun 2026 13:04 BST |
4 min read
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Manchester United could provide the key to Real Madrid’s pursuit of Enzo Fernandez, with the Chelsea star becoming Jose Mourinho’s top transfer target this summer.
Real Madrid are expected to push hard for Fernandez after making him their ‘chosen one’ for the summer, having already strengthened their defence with Marc Cucurella and the anticipated signings of Ibrahima Konate and Denzel Dumfries.
However, Madrid are aware that Chelsea will demand a substantial fee for Fernandez and seek a profit on the €120 million they paid for him in 2023, particularly with the midfielder having six years still left on his contract.
Consequently, a departure in midfield is seen as ‘necessary’ to sign Fernandez, with The Athletic reporting that Eduardo Camavinga is the player Madrid are most ‘open’ to hearing offers for.
But Camavinga is understood to be against an exit and those close to him believe it is ‘impossible’ for him to leave this summer, while Federico Valverde is not on the market despite some reports.
Madrid will now consider offers for Aurelien Tchouameni, giving United a chance to sign their dream target and weaken a rival in the process by creating a path for Fernandez to leave Chelsea.
Man Utd could reignite Tchouameni pursuit and secure Fernandez move to Madrid
Tchouameni is believed to be United’s dream target to replace Casemiro but, having explored a move for the Frenchman earlier in the year, Madrid had not opened the door to the midfielder’s exit.
United have since moved onto a move for Atalanta star Ederson, with a €45m deal set to be closed after the World Cup, while they are also keen on signing Mateus Fernandes, although West Ham’s valuation of close to €100m has proven preventative so far.
With Fernandes also being tracked by Tottenham, United may return for Tchouameni, although the 26-year-old’s wages, as well as Madrid’s asking price, may make the finances of the deal difficult.
Madrid would likely be willing to negotiate Tchouameni’s exit knowing that his departure is the largest roadblock to signing Fernandez, with Chelsea reluctant to sell their star midfielder but aware that his desire to leave could make a sale the best solution.
While Chelsea have not given up hopes of keeping hold of Fernandez, United moving for Tchouameni would likely provide the funds needed for Real Madrid to make their move and force the club’s hand into selling the Argentina international for a major fee.
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