Real Madrid decides to sign Enzo Fernandez at Mourinho’s request

José Mourinho is back at one of Europe’s biggest clubs, and he’s already making demands. The newly appointed Real Madrid manager has identified Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernández as his number one transfer target, with the Spanish giants reportedly preparing to open negotiations with Chelsea.

Mourinho’s midfield masterplan

The reports, which began surfacing around June 17, 2026, paint a clear picture of Mourinho’s priorities. According to Spanish outlet Marca, Fernández isn’t just one name on a long list. He’s the name on the list.

Real Madrid is said to be in the preparation phase to initiate formal discussions with Chelsea over a potential deal.

Unverified reports have even suggested that personal terms between Fernández’s representatives and Real Madrid may have been informally settled, with a potential contract running through 2032. No formal transfer has been completed as of late June 2026.

Why Enzo Fernández fits the Mourinho mold

Fernández burst onto the global scene during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where his performances helped Argentina lift the trophy. His subsequent move to Chelsea made him one of the most expensive midfielders in football history.

The fact that Real Madrid is also exploring alternative targets in case the Fernández deal doesn’t materialize tells you something about the club’s pragmatism. Several backup options have reportedly been identified, though none have generated the same level of buzz as the primary target.

For Real Madrid supporters, the Portuguese manager’s appointment represents a return to the kind of big-personality management that defined the club’s identity during his first stint from 2010 to 2013.

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