Real Madrid Targets Midfield Replacements for Luka Modric

Real Madrid is preparing for Luka Modric’s summer exit by targeting Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez and Bayer Leverkusen’s Exequiel Palacios as potential replacements. While Chelsea may block Enzo’s transfer, Palacios, familiar to new manager Xabi Alonso, could be a viable option, especially with Manchester City also interested. Madrid aims to finalize signings before the Club World Cup.

The thing that has captured the attention of Real Madrid this summer is the confirmed departure of Luka Modric. The Croatian midfielder, a key figure for the club, is set to leave, prompting the club to find a suitable replacement to fill his influential role. Real Madrid has identified two primary targets for this position: Enzo Fernandez of Chelsea and Exequiel Palacios, currently linked with Bayer Leverkusen.

Enzo Fernandez has long been on Real Madrid’s radar, with interest dating back to before his high-profile transfer to Chelsea following the 2022 World Cup. However, Chelsea’s reluctance to let him go presents a significant challenge for Los Blancos. Due to Chelsea’s participation in the upcoming Club World Cup, any transfer involving Fernandez is unlikely to be completed by June, which reduces the chances of an early arrival. Meanwhile, Exequiel Palacios, another Argentine international, is favored by Real Madrid’s incoming manager, Xabi Alonso, with whom he worked at Bayer Leverkusen.

Nevertheless, Palacios faces competition from Manchester City, who are reportedly keen to sign him as well. Alongside these midfield targets, Real Madrid has already confirmed the signing of Dean Huijsen and is working to secure deals for Trent Alexander-Arnold and Alvaro Carreras. The new midfield addition will be an important part of a busy summer transfer window as the squad prepares for the upcoming season and the Club World Cup in the United States.