1 year ago
419 Liverpool have already struck one high-profile deal ahead of the January transfer window.
The Reds snapped up Netherlands star Cody Gakpo, one of the most highly sought after players at present.
Liverpool probably aren’t done yet, as their midfield could do with bolstering amid expiring contracts and ageing legs.
While Jude Bellingham is their apparent top target, other names have been doing the rounds on the rumour mill.
One of those is Enzo Fernandez, who helped Argentina win the 2022 World Cup earlier this month.
Photo by Massimiliano Ferraro/NurPhoto via Getty Images
O Jogo recently reported that the Reds had ‘priority’ over the Benfica and Albiceleste star.
However, the likes of Arsenal, Manchester United, Newcastle, Chelsea and Tottenham have also been linked.
Earlier this week, Fabrizio Romano claimed Liverpool have held talks over Fernandez amid “strong interest”.
However, he also stressed that the Reds haven’t submitted an official proposal for the 21-year-old.
Liverpool have never submitted official proposals for Enzo Fernández as things stand. Talks, strong interest of course — but never made any official bid to Benfica. 
#LFC
Rumours of release clause triggered in the past days, never been confirmed.
The race for Enzo is open. pic.twitter.com/iKETSsKYK3
Clear path for Fernandez soon?
Although Benfica aren’t willing to part company with Fernandez for less than his £105m fee, it looks as though they’re preparing for life without him nonetheless.
According to O Jogo, the Portuguese giants have set their sights on Velez Sarsfield talent Maximo Perrone.
The 19-year-old apparently has a €10m (£8.9m) release clause. So Benfica stand to make a huge profit on Fernandez even after sourcing a replacement.
As well as Perrone, the Primeira Liga outfit is also reportedly eyeing Racing’s Carlos Alcaraz, who has a €18m (£16m) price tag.
Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images
If true, this is good news for Liverpool – and Fernandez’s other suitors – as it suggests Benfica won’t fight too hard to hang on to Fernandez.
The ‘spectacular’ youngster played a key role in Argentina lifting the World Cup and has been equally as impressive in the Champions League this season.
With Klopp’s men also in the race to sign Bellingham next summer, it remains to be seen whether they can fund deals for both players.
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