Real Madrid will make a move to sign Enzo Fernandez, with sources close to the situation saying there is a very strong chance that Sunday’s clash with Sunderland is last game for Chelsea.
Manchester City are also interested, but that may depend on the future of Rodri. Madrid could make a move for the Spanish international, who would be their top priority for the position, but that deal is viewed as more difficult to do.
There is meanwhile an increasing belief that Fernandez will now leave Stamford Bridge, after a hugely difficult season that saw him dropped by manager Leroy Rosenior during his brief reign.
Despite a softening of all positions once Calum McFarlane was installed as interim, issues have lingered and a sense it would be best for all parties to make a change. Chelsea would just be unlikely to recoup the £100m-plus paid for the 25-year-old, although they are aware that Madrid are in immediate need of a proper central midfielder.
If the Spanish side do ultimately move for Rodri, Fernandez would instead offer an option for City. Enzo Maresca will take over from the departing Pep Guardiola, and he does have a good relationship with the Argentine.
Fernandez was a Maresca loyalist, and often talked him even after the Italian's departure.
