Former Chelsea midfielder Emmanuel Petit has called on the Blues to part ways with Enzo Fernandez and pursue a direct swap deal with Real Madrid for Eduardo Camavinga. The Argentine has faced a turbulent spell in London, while Camavinga’s position in Spain has grown uncertain following managerial upheaval at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Midfield swap suggestion amid internal strain

The leadership at Stamford Bridge is under increasing scrutiny over Fernandez’s future. The World Cup-winning midfielder signed an extensive contract running until 2032, but he was internally suspended for two matches in April after being linked with a possible move to Spain. According to reports from El Nacional, returning Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho is open to selling Camavinga for a sum between €50 million and €80 million. Petit believes a direct exchange between the two clubs could provide a timely solution for both sides this summer.

Petit calls for Chelsea to take action

Speaking to BetVictor Live Casino, the former World Cup champion gave a detailed evaluation of the situation and strongly supported the idea of a high-profile trade. Petit said, “Eduardo Camavinga in a swap deal with Enzo Fernandez? Why not? Camavinga is still very young. He joined Real Madrid from Rennes when he was just eighteen and has now spent six or seven years playing for the Spanish giants.”

“He has already lifted major trophies in his career. He was one of the most exciting young talents when he arrived. I can’t really assess his form over the past two seasons given what has been happening at the club. Many players have struggled for consistency at Real Madrid for different reasons.”

“Camavinga could be an excellent addition because Chelsea’s squad is largely built around young players. He brings valuable experience. Coming from Real Madrid, having won multiple titles and represented his national team, he would bring the kind of maturity that Chelsea currently lacks.”

“Camavinga is a gifted player and would fit in perfectly.”

Fernandez’s leadership under criticism

The tension between Fernandez and Chelsea’s management has deepened after the club endured another disappointing campaign, finishing 10th in the 2025–26 Premier League and missing out on European football altogether. Petit suggested that the relationship between the player and the club has reached breaking point.

“Enzo Fernandez should go,” Petit stated. “You cannot keep a player happy if he wants to leave. He has made it clear that he wants out and was fined by the club. I know he’s probably been one of Chelsea’s best performers over the last two seasons, but you can’t be captain and behave like this.”

“It’s obvious he wants to move on — we’re not blind. He’s clearly frustrated and tired of the situation at Chelsea. The season has been chaotic. Real Madrid are interested because they urgently need strong and dynamic midfielders. I wouldn’t be surprised if he left for Madrid or another big club.”

Crucial summer transfer window ahead

As the summer transfer window nears, both Chelsea and Real Madrid are preparing for major tactical overhauls. Mourinho aims to rebuild Madrid into a more technically refined side, while Camavinga must weigh his future after missing out on France’s World Cup squad. A move to the Premier League could offer him a fresh start. Meanwhile, Chelsea’s hierarchy must decide whether to safeguard their long-term investment in Fernandez or cash in to restore balance and unity within the squad.