Manchester United are prepared to beat Liverpool in the race to sign Enzo Fernandez by triggering the €120 million release clause in his Benfica contract.
The Argentine star joined Benfica from River Plate for an initial fee of €10 million last summer and he has since been hugely impressive across all competitions.
The 21-year-old has eight goal contributions in 24 games for his club. This has included key assists against Juventus and Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League.
The holding midfielder was also sublime at the World Cup. He initially started on the bench, but became a key figure, registering a goal and an assist en route to the title.
It is now reported by UOL Esporte that the Red Devils are ready to activate the €120m (£106m) buy-out clause in his contract next month in order to beat Liverpool in the race.
Jurgen Klopp’s side recently failed with a club-record €100m bid (£88.5m) for the highly-rated midfielder.
Man Utd can make huge statement with Fernandez deal
Fernandez was scouted by United towards the end of last season and they were suggestions that the club could make a formal approach to sign him during the summer transfer window.
However, the Red Devils never made an official bid for him. He ended up joining Benfica for €10m plus €8 million in add-ons. The club’s hierarchy are probably regretting their decision.
Fernandez is now one of the most sought-after young midfielders in world football. At just 21, he has barely any weaknesses in his game. He is capable of playing in different midfield roles.
The youngster has made regular goal contributions but has also been excellent defensively. He is strong with his tackling and has also won ground and aerial duels with relative success.
His distribution has likewise been impressive with an 89 per cent accuracy. He already has the hallmarks of being a world-class star. It would be a huge statement if United sign him next month.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com and SofaScore.com
