Enzo Fernandez is one of the biggest names linked with a high-profile transfer this summer. The Chelsea midfielder's future at Stamford Bridge is under the spotlight after mounting speculation he could join Real Madrid.
The 25-year-old has appeared to hint at a future move to the Santiago Bernabeu with past comments on living in Madrid even earning him a two-game ban from former head coach Liam Rosenior.
However, with Fernandez under contract until 2032, agreeing to a deal will be incredibly complicated and one that seems increasingly unlikely to happen this summer.
Enzo Fernandez wants Chelsea future decided as soon as possible
Fernandez is currently away on international duty, preparing to help Argentina defend their World Cup crown in North America, but his domestic future is still at the forefront.
According to the Daily Mail, the South American playmaker wants his Chelsea future decided before a ball is kicked at the 2026 World Cup — just two weeks away.
While Real Madrid are unlikely to meet Chelsea's demands of at least £120 million before Argentina's Group J opener against Algeria on June 17, the Blues could still agree to offer him a bumper new deal.
There has already been talk Fernandez has been haggling for a new, and improved, contract with Fabrizio Romano recently claiming the Argentine 'has been talking for some months over new contract details, but there has been no agreement or solution found yet'.
Xabi Alonso will be major factor in what Blues do
After confirming Xabi Alonso will become Chelsea's next manager — taking charge from July 1 — the Spaniard is certain to play a major role in what comes next for Fernandez.
The former Bayer Leverkusen and Real Madrid boss will want the best, and most experienced, players available to him, and Fernandez certainly fits into that category.
While there is no doubting the ex-Benfica midfielder hasn't gone about things the right way, it's becoming increasingly more obvious that a new deal is his preference.
Whether BlueCo will agree to offer him an extension on his already six-year terms remains to be seen. They may not want to set a precedent, especially when it's involved a player so openly discussing the possibility of playing elsewhere.
Ultimatley, Fernandez staying is the best thing for the team, but should the club agree that, fans will wonder at what cost.
Since joining the Blues, the 25-year-old has been directly involved in 61 goals in 169 games in all competitions.
Add us as a preferred source on Google