Reports across Europe have placed Fernandez among Real Madrid's primary midfield targets this summer, with Spanish outlet Fichajes claiming Los Blancos are preparing an initial bid of around €120 million. Chelsea, who signed the 25-year-old from Benfica for a British-record £106.8 million in January 2023, are said to value him at up to €150 million.
Pastore acknowledged to AS that Fernandez has made comments that were not ideally timed, but pushed back on the idea that they signal an imminent departure.
"He didn't say anything strange. He simply spoke about Madrid — that he likes it very much."
He confirmed that Fernandez visits the Spanish capital regularly, but attributed it to personal ties rather than any transfer intent.
"Every time he has a free day he comes to Madrid because I'm there, and because he has friends there. But it stays at that — nothing more."
On the player's positional profile, Pastore said Fernandez has shown he can operate across multiple midfield roles. Under Enzo Maresca he played higher up the pitch, while Liam Rosenior has used him deeper as part of a double pivot. In the Argentina national team setup he has functioned as an advanced eight with licence to arrive late into goalscoring positions.
"He has had two years with many assists and many goals, so it's normal that coaches see him as more offensive than defensive. But he is a player who can comfortably play in both positions."
The priority, Pastore said, is a strong World Cup. What comes after will be addressed in due course.