Chelsea Turn to Real Madrid Midfielder in Fernandez Exit Plan

Xabi Alonso reportedly wants Enzo Fernandez to remain at Chelsea, but Aurelien Tchouameni would be his preferred replacement if the Argentine midfielder were to leave.

Alonso’s contingency plan

According to journalist Miguel Serrano, cited by Defensa Central and reported by Madrid Universal, Alonso is determined to keep Fernandez at Chelsea amid speculation linking the midfielder with Real Madrid.

The report says Alonso would oppose Fernandez’s departure. However, if Chelsea were forced to sell him, he would ask the club’s hierarchy to pursue Real Madrid midfielder Tchouameni as a replacement.

Tchouameni is described as Alonso’s preferred option to fill the void left by Fernandez. Alonso is said to know the France international from his brief spell at Real Madrid, where the report says he was impressed by the midfielder’s performances and believes he has the qualities to strengthen Chelsea’s midfield.

The proposed move is presented as a contingency rather than an immediate transfer. Tchouameni would become Alonso’s preferred target only if Fernandez left Stamford Bridge.

Tchouameni’s Real Madrid future

Tchouameni remains under contract at Real Madrid until 2028, although the report describes his long-term future as uncertain. It notes that attention could increase if no extension is agreed and he enters the summer of 2027 with one year left on his deal, a situation that would weaken Real Madrid’s negotiating position.

According to the report, some figures within football believe Tchouameni may have reached his ceiling and would not necessarily oppose a sale if an offer of around €80 million arrived. Any decision on his future is expected to involve Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho, whose view could be decisive.

Chelsea would not be the only club interested in the French midfielder, according to the report. Manchester United are also said to be monitoring his situation as they search for a long-term replacement for Casemiro.

For now, the report centres on Alonso’s preference in the event Fernandez departs. Tchouameni’s contract situation, the reported possibility of a sale and interest from other clubs would all form part of any future discussion over his next move.