Real Madrid publicly denies interest in Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernández amid agent's claims

Real Madrid have released an official statement on Friday, 3 July 2026, denying any interest in signing Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernández. The club said it had taken no steps, direct or indirect, to bring the Argentine to the Santiago Bernabéu and has no intention of doing so. The statement came after days of speculation fuelled by comments from Fernández's agent Javier Pastore.

In light of the information and statements that have emerged in recent days regarding an alleged interest from Real Madrid CF in the player Enzo Fernández, the club wishes to state that it has not made any efforts, either directly or indirectly, aimed at signing the aforementioned player and, furthermore, has no intention of pursuing such an operation.

The spark from Pastore

The transfer chatter was ignited this week when Javier Pastore, the former footballer who represents Fernández, told Spanish media that "Madrid likes Enzo, and Enzo likes Madrid." Pastore also said that while they were exploring options for a Chelsea exit, nothing was firm and the player was focused on the 2026 World Cup with Argentina.

Madrid likes Enzo, and Enzo likes Madrid.

Fernández's own signals

Enzo Fernández had previously hinted at an affinity for the Spanish capital. In an interview during the March international break, he spoke of the appeal of living in Madrid and his admiration for the club, remarks that led to him being dropped from the Chelsea team for two matches in April. After Real Madrid's denial today, Fernández posted a Bible verse from Psalm 145 on Instagram, along with a white heart emoji, a gesture widely seen as a response to the noise around his future.

Chelsea's season and shifting landscape

Fernández joined Chelsea from Benfica in January 2023 for a British record fee of £107 million, and his contract runs until 2032. Last season he made 54 appearances in all competitions, scoring 15 goals and seven assists. Chelsea, however, endured a disappointing campaign, finishing 10th in the Premier League and missing out on European qualification. The club appointed Xabi Alonso as manager in May.

A pattern of public denials

This marks the second time this summer that Real Madrid have issued a public denial over a transfer, following a similar statement last month rejecting contact with Bayern Munich forward Michael Olise. José Mourinho, set to take over as head coach, had reportedly placed Fernández on a list of midfield targets, but club sources played down the likelihood of a move. The Athletic reported last week that Madrid were not expected to pursue the deal, and Chelsea would have demanded around £120 million for a player they value highly.