Real Madrid came into this summer transfer window with one clear goal in mind, revamp and refresh the squad after disasterous back-to-back trophyless seasons, and so far that's what they've done. The club has already annoucned four news signings and are still activley working on others, with one midfielder in particular being the center of their attention, however, former manager Xabi Alonso has put a knife in Real Madrid's plans with just one word.
While speaking in his introductory press conference, new Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso confirmed he plans to keep midfielder Enzo Fernandez as part of his squad this summer amid the constant talk of an exit this summer. Alonso views the midfielder as a key player in the system he plans to implement and doesn't view him for sale at any price. Alonso was asked directly if he plans to keep the midfielder, to which he responded with one word to break Real Madrid's heart.
"Yes"Xabi Alonso
Xabi Alonso break's Real Madrid hearts with one word
This comes as a major blow to Real Madrid's remaining transfer plans, as Enzo was viewed as the last piece to be brought in this summer to revamp the squad for new manager Jose Mourinho. The club have been desperate for a Toni Kroos replacement ever since the German's retirement and the club viewed Enzo as that perfect replacement. however with Xabi Alonso shutting down any prospect of a transfer, Real Madrid will now have to look elsewhere to strengthen their midfield.
And unfortunately for Real Madrid there aren't many other options out there. There aren't many other options out there with the same quality as Enzo, and after Elliot Anderson's €135 million move to Manchester City, the midfield market is well and truly dead and over priced, leaving Real Madrid with only one option, stick with the group they already have.
Jose Mourinho plans to build his midfield around Jude Bellingham, and after personally requesting the contract extension for Aurelien Tchouameni, the Frenchman is expected to play a key part in the 26/27 season as well. Add on top of that Fede Valverde, Eduardo Camavinga, and Arda Guler as other options, and Jose Mourinho has enough at his disposal and if anyone can make the midfield work, it's The Special One.
A deal for Enzo was always going to be tough for Real Madrid even before Xabi Alonso put the final nail in the coffin. Chelsea were demanding a fee above the €125 million they paid for the Argentine back in 2023, so when looking at the whole situation, a move for the 25-year-old seemed off the table even before Xabi Alonso's comments.
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