Real Madrid is once again making headlines in the transfer market, this time as they seek to bolster their midfield with world-class talent. With Toni Kroos retired and Luka Modrić entering the twilight of his career, the club is working hard behind the scenes to secure a generational replacement who can carry the baton for years to come. At the top of their list? Enzo Fernández, Nicolò Barella, and Alexis Mac Allister.
Sources close to the negotiations have revealed that Enzo Fernández of Chelsea is now the front-runner in Real Madrid’s midfield shortlist. The Argentine has impressed Los Blancos with his blend of creativity, composure, and long-range passing. His ability to control the tempo from deep positions has convinced the Madrid hierarchy that he could become the next orchestrator in the middle of the park. Internal talks suggest that there is a 70% chance of the deal going through, with only minor details left to finalize.
Chelsea, who signed Enzo for over €120 million, are reluctant to sell, but with Financial Fair Play pressures and a potential midfield reshuffle under new management, the possibility remains alive. Real Madrid are said to be preparing a structured deal that could involve performance-related clauses, making it more palatable for the London club.
In second place is Inter Milan’s midfield engine, Nicolò Barella. The Italian maestro has been a key part of Inter’s Serie A dominance and Champions League resurgence, impressing with his aggressive pressing, eye for goal, and relentless work rate. However, Barella’s price tag and Inter’s resistance to selling make this deal more complicated. Reports suggest the probability of this transfer happening sits at around 45%, as Madrid continues to assess whether it’s worth engaging in lengthy negotiations.
Then comes Alexis Mac Allister of Liverpool, a name that has quietly entered the conversation. Despite only joining the Reds in 2023, the Argentine has already shown flashes of brilliance in Jurgen Klopp’s system. His versatility, vision, and tactical discipline have not gone unnoticed in Spain. But given that Liverpool see him as central to their future, this option remains less likely, with insiders placing the odds at 37% for now.
There is also some lingering buzz about Rodri of Manchester City, considered by many as the best defensive midfielder in the world. However, despite admiration from Real Madrid, this transfer appears highly unrealistic. City view Rodri as untouchable, and even a world-record fee may not be enough to tempt them. While the rumors persist, it’s fair to say this is more of a dream than a concrete plan—a possibility that has already faded.
What’s fascinating is the level of urgency within Real Madrid’s camp. Carlo Ancelotti and club president Florentino Pérez are aligned on the need for a midfielder who can contribute immediately but also grow into the role long-term. The club’s DNA has always been about building for the future while maintaining elite standards in the present, and this summer could be pivotal in shaping that future.
Enzo Fernández’s profile, style of play, and age fit perfectly into what Madrid are looking for. There’s a sense of inevitability growing around this deal, with fans already speculating about how he’d link up with Jude Bellingham and Eduardo Camavinga in what could become the most dynamic midfield trio in world football.
Meanwhile, Barella and Mac Allister remain strong backup options. Real Madrid are not in a hurry to rush into decisions, but they are prepared to strike once the conditions align. The strategy has always been clear: wait for the right moment, and when it comes—go all in.
There is a quiet confidence among Madrid insiders. One source close to the negotiations was quoted saying, “Real is about to win Enzo Fernández. That’s how it was—and thanks be to God.” That optimism is reflected in the club’s recent transfer behavior, where they’ve executed surgical signings that improve the squad without creating unnecessary drama.
With preseason nearing its close and the La Liga campaign about to kick off, the final pieces of Madrid’s midfield puzzle are being placed. Whether it ends with Enzo, Barella, or Mac Allister, one thing is clear—Real Madrid is preparing for another golden era in midfield.