A swap deal shakes Real Madrid and Chelsea… a surprise name enters the picture, and Pérez’s decision confuses everyone!

Recent days have witnessed underlying tension within Real Madrid, coinciding with a lackluster performance by a prominent player in one of the most crucial matches of the season, as well as unusual behavior during a game. This has sparked debate within the dressing room and among technical analysts.

The scene that surprised everyone unfolded when a star midfielder came on as a substitute during an away match but delayed his warm-up and avoided joining his fellow substitutes. Instead, he chose to sit near the coaching staff, which some interpreted as a sign of internal conflict or unspoken tension.

The name is now well-known: Fede Valverde.

The Uruguayan star, long regarded by Madridistas as the “beating heart” of the midfield, has not been at his best recently. Although his defensive contributions and relentless effort remain evident, his offensive influence has clearly waned. This has prompted some to ask whether he is still untouchable, or if the summer of 2025 could bring major surprises.

A potential swap deal to shake up the transfer market

Meanwhile, English and Spanish reports have circulated an intriguing proposal from within Chelsea. It involves a blockbuster swap deal between Fede Valverde and Enzo Fernández, the Argentine international who was once on Real Madrid’s radar before his move to the Premier League.

According to these reports, Chelsea is open to selling Enzo if it means securing Valverde, especially since both players operate in similar roles. The age difference favors the Blues’ midfielder, whose market value is around €75 million, compared to €130 million for Valverde.

Real Madrid has no plans to sell yet

While the deal may seem appealing from both economic and strategic perspectives, Real Madrid’s management remains committed to Valverde. He currently serves as vice-captain and is considered one of the team’s most vital players both tactically and emotionally, particularly as he is seen as a future successor to Dani Carvajal for the captaincy.

Fede, for his part, is not contemplating a departure and has repeatedly expressed his satisfaction at the club and his desire to remain part of Carlo Ancelotti’s project, despite his recent dip in form.

The European Super League issue resurfaces

On the administrative front, Florentino Pérez faces a parallel challenge following reports that Joan Laporta may withdraw from the European Super League project. Such a move could leave Real Madrid isolated in what remains one of the most controversial issues in European football, especially amid speculation about new alliances involving Paris Saint-Germain and Nasser Al-Khelaifi.

Will Enzo and Valverde shift the landscape in summer 2025?

All options remain on the table. What is certain, however, is that Fede Valverde’s name has returned to the forefront of transfer speculation. This time, not for his goals, but because of the growing uncertainty surrounding his future at the Santiago Bernabéu.