At Santiago Bernabéu, Toni Kroos's retirement continues to leave a void that's hard to fill. The white midfield has more than enough talent. However, the club is still searching for that player capable of bringing leadership, vision, and game control from day one.
In recent weeks, attention had turned to a footballer with a very high profile and elite experience: Enzo Fernández.
The Argentine from Chelsea, world champion with the Albiceleste, was the "dark horse" on the list of alternatives to Rodri, the great dream that the white leadership has been pursuing for some time.
A plan that meets reality
The interest in Enzo Fernández wasn't accidental. His youth, technical quality, and ability to cover the entire midfield fit what Xabi Alonso demands to keep ball dominance and balance the team. However, the preliminary talks made it clear that any attempt to sign him would require exorbitant figures.
Chelsea, known for its inflated transfer policy and long contracts, wasn't willing to negotiate for less than an amount that those at Chamartín described as "unacceptable." We're talking about a price that would far exceed €120 million, a figure that breaks any market logic in Real Madrid's current planning.
Florentino sets the limits
Florentino Pérez has always argued that the club must spend wisely and within sustainable parameters. Although he has closed multi-million deals in the past, the president is clear that soccer's economic situation requires a cool head. Even to sign stars.
In Enzo Fernández's case, the board has decided not to enter a bidding war that could compromise other strategic moves. It's important to remember that Real Madrid keeps several files open to strengthen the squad in the medium term. Such a high outlay for a single player could affect future moves.
The focus returns to Rodri
With Enzo Fernández out of the picture, the main target remains Rodri. Manchester City's midfielder is considered the perfect heir to take command of the white midfield.
However, signing him also presents enormous difficulties. Pep Guardiola doesn't want to let him go and is trying to renew his contract with a multi-million figure.
The alternative is to keep scouring the market and wait for the right moment. The club assumes that if a top-level replacement isn't found, Xabi Alonso will rely on the current squad.