Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez sparks Real Madrid transfer rumours again

The Chelsea midfielder travelled to the Spanish capital with team-mates Marc Cucurella and Joao Pedro after Chelsea's FA Cup semi-final victory over Leeds United at Wembley. Fernandez scored the winning goal in the 1-0 victory that secured Chelsea's place in the final.

The trip quickly attracted attention because Fernandez recently admitted while on international duty with Argentina national football team that Madrid was a city he would like to live in one day. Those comments were widely viewed as leaving the door open to a future move to Real Madrid.

Former Chelsea head coach Liam Rosenior responded by leaving Fernandez out of the squad for two matches as an internal disciplinary decision before his dismissal on 22 April. Both Fernandez and his representatives later apologised to Chelsea over the situation.

Chelsea are not trying to sell the midfielder despite continued interest from Real Madrid. The Spanish club are expected to strengthen their midfield this summer and Fernandez remains one of the players admired by the European giants.

Chelsea value the Argentina international at more than 100 million pounds and no talks have taken place regarding a transfer. Fernandez is under contract at Stamford Bridge until 2032 and remains part of the club's long-term plans.

The midfielder is also believed to be among several Chelsea players seeking improved contract terms, although his public comments about Madrid reportedly complicated those discussions.

Chelsea's attention now turns back to their busy schedule under interim head coach Calum McFarlane. The Blues host Nottingham Forest at Stamford Bridge on 4 May before travelling to face Liverpool at Anfield. They will then meet Manchester City in the FA Cup final at Wembley on 16 May.