Liverpool become World Cup winning midfielder’s ‘priority’ but see transfer plans threatened by Euro giants as interest swells
Liverpool have received good news and bad news in their pursuit of Argentina and Benfica midfielder Enzo Fernandez after an update from the Portuguese press.
Fernandez is fresh from winning the World Cup with Argentina. The 21-year-old took his chance to impress in Qatar and has earned his place on the radars of many top clubs. He may only have joined Benfica this summer, but could be destined for even bigger things perhaps sooner than expected.
Liverpool desperately need to strengthen their midfield in 2023, when the likes of James Milner, Naby Keita and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain will be out of contract.
With that in mind, they have identified Fernandez as someone who could strengthen the department for the long term.
Their admiration for him has been confirmed by trustworthy sources. Therefore, it seems like there is a decent chance that Fernandez could end up at Anfield.
However, Liverpool are naturally not his only suitors. An update from O Jogo in Portugal has provided the latest on what the future might hold for the Benfica star.
According to the report, Fernandez is giving his “priority” to Liverpool. They would be able to sign him by activating his €120million (around £105million) release clause.
There are a number of other clubs who could do so instead, though. It has now been revealed that Paris Saint-Germain, one of the most financially powerful clubs in Europe, are keen on taking him to Ligue 1.
In addition, clubs are queuing up including Barcelona, Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid and Inter Milan.
Perhaps of most concern to Liverpool, though, is the theory that the other five members of the Premier League’s so-called big six are also now eyeing up Fernandez.
Hence, he could end up at either Manchester club, United or City, or in London with either Chelsea, Arsenal or Tottenham Hotspur.
Liverpool must stay in lead for Enzo Fernandez
Fortunately for Liverpool, a move to Anfield seems to be what Fernandez is giving most thought to at present. But it is clear by now that it won’t be straightforward to compete for his signature.
If Liverpool have to meet his release clause rather than negotiate, Fernandez would become their record signing.
Therefore, they would be relying on him to repay their faith. But he has shown plenty of promise over the past few months. His status as a World Cup winner will only make him more appealing.
Playing in the Premier League would be a first for Fernandez. That said, he looks capable of enjoying a lengthy career at a competitive level.
He is already coming up against decent rivals in Portugal, though there could be bigger things on the horizon. Liverpool can only hope they stay in the lead for his signature. Missing out on him would be a major blow.
Only time will tell if they are able to take him to Merseyside.
