Real Madrid are reportedly exploring a sensational swap deal with Chelsea that would see Enzo Fernández move to the Bernabéu, with teenage prodigy Franco Mastantuono heading to Stamford Bridge.
According to reports from E-Notícias, Real Madrid manager Álvaro Arbeloa is keen to bolster his midfield with Fernández’s world-class vision. To lower the financial demands of the deal, Florentino Pérez is considering offering 18-year-old sensation Franco Mastantuono as a key piece of the negotiation a player Chelsea have long admired.
The Argentine Connection
Both players emerged from the famed River Plate academy, but they find themselves at different stages of their careers:
- Enzo Fernández (25): An established star whose future at Chelsea has become “uncertain” following the departure of Enzo Maresca.
- Franco Mastantuono (18): A “diamond in the rough” who has shown flashes of brilliance at Madrid (3 goals in 21 games) but may lack the consistent minutes needed to reach his full potential in a crowded Merengue frontline.
Why the Deal Makes Sense
Real Madrid officials are reportedly in a period of “internal reflection.” While they acknowledge Mastantuono’s immense ceiling, the opportunity to sign a peak-age Enzo Fernández who has 13 goal involvements in 33 games this season might be too good to pass up.
For Chelsea, acquiring Mastantuono would fit their long-term strategy of hoarding the world’s best U21 talents. However, they face stiff competition from PSG, the reigning Champions League holders, who are also desperate to bring the Argentine midfielder to Paris.
- Enzo’s Value: Contracted until 2031; Chelsea will demand a massive fee or a high-value player in exchange.
- Mastantuono’s Form: 2 goals in his last 4 matches for Real Madrid, proving he is ready for more responsibility.
The PSG Factor
The race for Enzo Fernández is far from a two-horse race. PSG’s interest adds a layer of complexity, as the French giants can offer a straight cash deal that might appeal to Chelsea’s FFP (Financial Fair Play) requirements more than a player swap. Real Madrid will need to move quickly if they want to reunite the former Benfica and River Plate star with his international teammates in Spain.
Gabriel Lucio is a football analyst covering La Liga, focusing on match analysis, tactical trends, and the race for domestic and European positions.
