Real Madrid could see significant changes to their squad this summer, with several senior players reportedly requesting the sale of midfielder Fede Valverde. The request comes following a dressing room altercation with teammate Aurelien Tchouameni, an incident that has apparently fractured relationships within the team.
Last week’s fight between Valverde and Tchouameni resulted in both players being fined €500,000 by the club, but according to Ramon Alvarez de Mon, the internal fallout has been more significant. Several influential figures in the Real Madrid dressing room have now asked the club to consider selling Valverde during the upcoming transfer window, believing the situation with Tchouameni is unsustainable.
The request is described as a ‘delicate’ matter given Valverde’s contributions to Real Madrid since joining from Penarol in 2018. The Uruguayan international has become a key component of the midfield, known for his energy, tackling, and goal-scoring ability, playing over 200 times for the club and winning multiple La Liga and Champions League titles. However, reports suggest the blame for the dressing room incident has fallen disproportionately on Valverde.
Sources indicate Valverde repeatedly provoked Tchouameni, beginning with accusations and escalating to hard tackles in training. He is also alleged to have accused the Frenchman of leaking information to the press. Despite the club’s equal punishment of both players, the perception within the squad appears to be that Valverde instigated the conflict.
Real Madrid may be hesitant to sell Valverde despite the internal pressure. The club could be concerned that being seen to force a sale would weaken their negotiating position, particularly given Valverde’s contract runs until 2029. Although the 2025/26 season was considered one of his less impactful campaigns, his overall value to the club remains high. A departure would likely create a void in midfield that would need addressing.
