Florentino Pérez continues to work on building a dream squad for the upcoming season. After successfully securing high-profile signings such as Ibrahima Konaté, Denzel Dumfries, Marc Cucurella, and Bernardo Silva, the white sports management does not stop its ambition. Real Madrid's transfer market is still active, and their next objective is to sign another midfielder.
Under the technical guidance of José Mourinho, the Madrid leadership is clear on the team's needs. They are looking for a player with excellent vision, the ability to break lines with dribbling, and outstanding positional sense. To meet these demands, the technical department is considering three options: Enzo Fernández, Mateus Fernandes, and Kees Smit. Three alternatives with different economic and generational profiles, but all with enough quality to wear the white shirt.
Enzo Fernández, Real Madrid's Top Choice
The most enticing option in terms of hierarchy and international experience is undoubtedly Enzo Fernández. The 25-year-old Argentine international has established himself as one of the most sought-after playmakers in world football after his remarkable season in the Premier League with Chelsea. However, the delicate sporting situation of the London club, which failed to qualify for European positions, pushes the talented Argentine midfielder to seek an immediate exit this summer.
The Argentine midfielder aims to play in the Champions League next season, with Real Madrid being his preferred destination. He believes that the Santiago Bernabéu provides the ideal stage to further enhance his trophy cabinet and unleash his creative abilities in midfield. Despite the player's wishes, the financial aspect makes the operation quite challenging due to Chelsea's demands.
The English club is adamant in negotiations concerning their star player. Selling their playmaker is not part of their initial plans, so Chelsea would demand around £120 million to release their vice-captain. This astronomical figure will require Florentino Pérez to carefully assess the financial effort, considering Financial Fair Play regulations and the significant investments already made in the current transfer market.

Mateus Fernandes, The Portuguese Talent Sparking Premier League Interest
If the Argentine option becomes too costly, Real Madrid has a solid alternative plan in the British Isles. Meet Mateus Fernandes, the midfielder from West Ham who has impressed European football with his physical presence and precise ball distribution. The Portuguese international's contractual situation offers optimism in the Spanish capital, as he will definitely leave West Ham in the summer following his team's relegation.
The 21-year-old midfielder's release clause is around €90 million, a significantly lower amount compared to Chelsea's demands for their midfielder. Despite being a clear market opportunity, the real challenge for the Madrid club is the competition from various Premier League teams eager to secure his services immediately. Top clubs like Manchester United are already preparing formal offers to acquire his talents.
Kees Smit, The Dutch Gem Under Jorge Mendes' Guidance
Another promising option gaining traction at the Bernabéu is the youth and flair of Kees Smit. The 20-year-old midfielder from AZ Alkmaar has become a sensation in the Eredivisie. His ability to link up in tight spaces and tactical maturity beyond his years have attracted interest from the best scouts across European football.
The Dutch club is not willing to let go of their prized asset, and AZ demands around €60 million to green-light his transfer. Like the other alternatives, Real Madrid is seen as an appealing choice for the player, who is keen on taking the next big step in his career under the guidance of the Portuguese coach in the Madrid-based club.
The success of this operation lies in the boardrooms and the agents involved in the discussions. Jorge Mendes, agent of José Mourinho, is managing the deal on behalf of AZ, a strategic partnership that could shape the outcome. According to negotiation sources, this excellent relationship and mediation by the Portuguese agent could be crucial if Real Madrid ultimately decides to sign him in the coming weeks.
The competition for the midfield role is wide open at the white house. The sports management weighs the pros and cons of each option: the proven experience of Enzo Fernández, the power and market presence of Mateus Fernandes, or the future potential that Kees Smit guarantees.
This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Los 3 mediocampistas que vigila el Real Madrid