Watch: Fabrizio Romano hints at Enzo Fernandez next club
Fabrizio Romano has explained the latest situation with Benfica youngster Enzo Fernandez and where his next move is most likely to be.
Following on from his superb World Cup campaign, Fernandez is one of the most in-demand players right now heading into January. Premier League clubs such as Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester United hold a firm interest in the player.
The 21-year-old has started in all 13 of Benfica’s league matches this season and he has made quite the impression since joining in the summer from River Plate.
“Fernandez would be an excellent option for Liverpool,” former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson told Football Insider.
“He is only young and he is already performing at the highest level. He was one of the standout players at the World Cup. There have been many failed signings off the back of a World Cup. Fernandez is doing it every week at club level as well though.
“He has a great engine, is the right age and has shown he can perform on the big stage. It would be an amazing signing. We know Liverpool are after Bellingham but they need at least two midfielders next summer. It would not surprise me if Fernandez is one of them.”
Fernandez was named the best young player at Qatar 2022, and has established himself as one of the best young midfielders in the world. It’s since been suggested that Chelsea are preparing to pay his €120million release clause as they look to a future without N’Golo Kante and Jorginho.
Benfica themselves currently sit top of the Primeira Liga and are reluctant to let Fernandez leave unless their demands are met. Romano has recently explained the current situation with the young star.
“Really interesting to see what happens with Enzo Fernandez, the fantastic player of Argentina, a World Cup champion. He was elected as best [young] talent of the World Cup, he has been incredible for Argentina.
“With Benfica the situation is pretty clear, the player will only leave in one case. If one club will trigger the €120million clause, so Benfica will not accept less than this.
“Also important to say this club has to reach an agreement with Fernandez and with his agent. It is true that his agent is coming to Europe to discuss with clubs.
“The feeling is that yes Real Madrid have been following the player for a long time, but it is also true that Real Madrid are not putting €120million on the table now in January for Fernandez.
“He is a player they appreciate but probably for the summer more than for January and this is why [the] Premier League is the most likely destination for Enzo.
“It is true that Liverpool have an interest, it is true that there were conversations also with Man United, but at the moment still no clause [has been] triggered.”
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