Real Madrid transfer update: An £85 million-rated midfielder is now being included as part of a swap deal in Real Madrid’s pursuit of Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez. This potential part-exchange arrangement suggests Real Madrid’s strong interest in bringing Fernandez into their squad.

Aurélien Tchouaméni joined Real Madrid from Monaco in the summer of 2022 for approximately £85 million. Since then, the 24-year-old midfielder has made 102 appearances across all competitions. Despite dealing with minor injuries last season, Tchouaméni still featured in 38 games under Carlo Ancelotti, contributing to Real Madrid’s La Liga, Champions League, and Supercopa de España triumphs.

This season, Tchouaméni has started 13 of Madrid’s 15 matches, primarily as a defensive midfielder, though he has occasionally been deployed in central defense. However, despite his consistent appearances, Spanish outlet Relevo reports that Real Madrid may be open to selling him due to a perceived dip in form. The club’s management reportedly favors Eduardo Camavinga as a midfield pivot, though Ancelotti still sees Tchouaméni as the best option for that role.

According to Fichajes, Real Madrid could use Tchouaméni in a deal to acquire Chelsea’s Enzo Fernández. The Spanish club is reportedly prepared to offer around €100 million (£84.4 million) for Fernández but might include Tchouaméni as part of a swap deal. Such a move could draw interest from Premier League clubs like Manchester United and Liverpool, both previously linked with Tchouaméni. Chelsea also showed interest in him before his transfer to Madrid, though it’s unclear if they would revisit that interest.

Fernández, who joined Chelsea from Benfica in January 2023 for £107 million, has made 74 appearances, contributing seven goals and six assists. While Chelsea isn’t actively seeking to sell him, Fichajes suggests the Argentine midfielder might be open to leaving due to limited playing time under Enzo Maresca and frustrations with Chelsea’s project. Despite this, Fernández remains under contract for over seven more years, and Chelsea has a wealth of midfield options, including Moisés Caicedo and Romeo Lavia.

In addition to Fernández, Real Madrid is reportedly monitoring Manchester City’s Rodri as a potential replacement if Tchouaméni departs.