Real Madrid receives €100 million offer from Chelsea for Valverde, Xabi Alonso’s starting player
Uruguayan midfielder is a key player for Xabi Alonso and has no plans to leave Spain
Chelsea’s mega offer blocked
Real Madrid rejected a €100 million (R$632 million) proposal from Chelsea for Federico Valverde, according to Defensa Central. The midfielder himself also declined the move, reaffirming his desire to stay at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Valverde, one of the team’s captains, is considered untouchable by Xabi Alonso and remains central to Madrid’s long-term project. The Uruguayan has made it clear that he is happy in Spain and determined to “make history” with Los Blancos.
Blues pivot to Fermín López
After the failed approach for Valverde, Chelsea have redirected their efforts toward Fermín López, Barcelona’s 21-year-old attacking midfielder. Reports indicate the London club could table an offer close to €100 million, matching the figure offered for Valverde.
Barcelona, unlike Madrid, appears more open to negotiation. Financial pressures make a nine-figure sale attractive, especially with Newcastle also monitoring López’s situation. Initially reluctant to leave LaLiga, the young Spaniard is now reportedly more receptive to a Premier League move.
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca sees López as a perfect fit, praising his creativity, control of possession, and ability to break defensive lines qualities the Blues urgently need to reinforce their midfield.
Context: Chelsea’s spending history
If confirmed, a deal for Fermín López would rank among the biggest transfers in Chelsea’s history, behind only Enzo Fernández, Moisés Caicedo, and Romelu Lukaku.
- Enzo Fernández – €120m
- Moisés Caicedo – €116m
- Romelu Lukaku – €113m
- Kai Havertz – €100m
- Wesley Fofana – €80m
López could join Havertz in the €100m bracket, further highlighting Chelsea’s strategy of heavy investment in young midfield talent.
