Chelsea know that Enzo Fernandez may have already played his last game for the club.
The 25-year-old is currently with Argentina at the 2026 World Cup but, due to Real Madrid's long standing interest, may not return to west London when the tournament ends.
The Spanish giants, led again by Jose Mourinho, have already signed Marc Cucurella for £52 million and have now turned their attention to a new central midfielder, and Fernandez is their top target.
Chelsea will demand a £120 million fee, which means Los Blancos may have to sell before making an offer, but expectation something can be done is growing more and more each day.
In preparation of Madrid's potential offer, the onus now is on the Blues to identify a potential replacement for the Argentine; something they're believed to have already done.
Chelsea identify Enzo Fernandez replacement
According to recent written reports in Spain (via Football365), Chelsea would like to sign Barcelona's Frenkie De Jong if Fernandez ends up leaving Stamford Bridge before the close of the window.
This isn't the first time the 29-year-old Dutchman — also away at the World Cup — has been heavily linked with leaving the Nou Camp.
Erik ten Hag's time at Manchester United continually saw De Jong linked with moving to the Premier League, and although nothing happened then, this time could be different due to Barcelona's softened stance.
Deco prepared to fly in for talks
Barcelona sporting director Deco is believed to be aware of Chelsea's interest in De Jong and is prepared to begin talks to learn the extent in which they're prepared to go to sign the midfielder.
The biggest potential hurdle for all parties to overcome will be De Jong's massive contract. The former Ajax man, who's deal runs until 2029, is Barcelona's highest paid player on well over £400,000 per week.
If the Blues are to do what Manchester United never could and convince De Jong to make the switch, they will need to offer him a substantial package.
Of course, Xabi Alonso's impending arrival could help sway De Jong's decision, but with European football out of the equation next season, the 44-year-old's task will be made even harder.
During his seven years in Spain, De Jong, who won his 69th cap for the Netherlands during the nation's 3-1 win over Tunisia on Friday, has been directly involved in 51 goals in 297 games in all competitions.
The midfielder has won eight major trophies with Barcelona including three La Liga titles.
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