Former Real Madrid Castilla midfielder Chema Andres has admitted he would be “delighted” to return to the Bernabeu this summer, with Los Blancos holding a €13m buyback clause on the Stuttgart star.
The 23 year old has been a revelation in his first season in the Bundesliga since joining Stuttgart for just €3m last summer. His form has been so impressive that talk of a Madrid return was swirling earlier this season even if those rumours have gone quiet in 2026.
But the clause remains. €13m this summer. €16m next year. For a player who cost a fraction of that just 12 months ago, it looks like a no brainer on paper.
Andres, however, is trying very hard not to think about it.
‘I’ve told my agent I don’t want to know’
In an interview with The Athletic, the midfielder played the good soldier while making absolutely no effort to shut down the speculation.
“That’s something the club has to decide I’d be delighted to return to Madrid, but it’s not something I’m worrying about right now,” he said.
“I’m very happy at Stuttgart. I’ve told my agent I don’t want to know anything about that. When the time comes, we’ll talk and see what options we have.”
It is the kind of answer that keeps everyone happy. Stuttgart fans cannot accuse him of agitating for a move. Madrid fans know the door is wide open. And the club know exactly where he stands.
Jokes with Stiller about Bernabeu move
Andres has plenty of company in the Stuttgart dressing room when it comes to Madrid speculation. Teammate Angelo Stiller was also linked with Los Blancos when Xabi Alonso’s arrived at the Bernabeu.
“Everyone knows about Madrid, but there have been a few jokes between us: ‘Are you off there? Am I coming and you’re leaving?’” Andres revealed.
“But that’s it. He’s our best player, he’s spectacular. If you watch a Stuttgart match, you’ll see he’s the one calling the shots. He’s a top class player and could play for any team hopefully Madrid, or wherever he wants.”
Stiller to Madrid, Andres to stay? Or the other way around? The pair are clearly enjoying the speculation, even if neither is losing sleep over it.
Madrid’s midfield shopping list
The reality is that Real Madrid are planning a significant investment in midfield this summer. The current engine room has looked short of spark at times, and the club are ready to spend.
Paris Saint Germain’s Vitinha is said to be the priority target, though that one looks a long shot as things stand. The French champions have no desire to sell, and Madrid would need to break the bank.
Other names on the shortlist include Rodri Hernandez, Adam Wharton and Kees Smit, all players who would cost significantly more than the €13m needed to bring Andres back.
That is what makes the buyback clause so attractive. Low risk, known quantity, already familiar with the club. It is the kind of deal Madrid have mastered over the years.
Manchester United lurking
There is another twist. Manchester United are reportedly looking at Andres this summer, which could work out nicely for Madrid even if they do not want him back.
If the Red Devils come calling with a serious offer say €25m or €30m, Madrid could activate their buyback clause and immediately flip him for a healthy profit. It is the sort of business that has kept the Bernabeu coffers full for decades.
Andres, for his part, seems relaxed about the whole thing. He is playing week in, week out at Stuttgart. He is loved by the fans. And he knows that if Madrid come calling, his dream move becomes a reality.
Not a bad position to be in for a bloke who cost €3m 12 months ago.
