Liverpool are monitoring Benfica centre-midfielder Enzo Fernandez, according to Dean Jones.
Fernandez is said to be a player that the Reds have had on their radar for some time, despite the Argentinian only arriving in Europe in the summer.
He has won his place in the Argentina side after previously starting on the bench for their opening two World Cup games, with his goal against Mexico seeing him start in the pivotal group game with Poland and their last-16 tie against Australia.
The energetic midfielder is said to have a €120m (£100m) release clause in his contract, with Jones revealing that despite his rise in Portugal this season, he won’t leave the runaway Primeira Liga leaders, but instead continue his development before having the pick of the European elite in the next couple of years.
Writing for GiveMeSport, he said: “Liverpool are monitoring him at Benfica this season and have been aware of his profile for some time. He is not quite the all-round midfielder they might be looking for, but what he does do is take charge of midfield battles in the way he commands play.
“One source revealed Liverpool have sent scouts to watch him but added that other clubs from around Europe also have eyes on the player with a €120m (£100m) release clause every week.
“There is a general feeling that he will not be attainable just yet, that he will develop in Portugal a little longer before taking his pick of European giants”
TIF Thoughts on Fernandez’s future…
The 21-year-old, who has been hailed as ‘unbelievable’, may well go down as one of the stars of the World Cup should Argentina go all the way, already impressing with a 7.7-rated performance against Poland from Sofascore, during which he won 100% of his duels, showing his combative abilities.
But for Benfica, he has proved an incredible attacking talent with his eight goal contributions since arriving, along with 17 goal contributions last season with River Plate, which leaves him in the top 9% for assists and top 2% for shot-creating chances amongst midfielders outside the top five European leagues over the past year.
He’s head and shoulders above any Liverpool midfielder for expected assists, key passes and progressive passes, suggesting he’s a talent they should perhaps act quickly on – particularly if rumoured target Jude Bellingham proves to be a more difficult acquisition.