Enzo Fernandez is the subject of a club-record offer from Chelsea. The 21-year-old, who played a crucial part in his nation’s World Cup success in Qatar, has emerged as one of the most in-demand young midfielders in the world after an outstanding debut season with Benfica in Europe.
Inquiries from Manchester United and Liverpool about a deal for Fernandez in January have been made to Benfica.
The player’s contract with Benfica includes a €120 million (£106 million) release clause, and it was recently claimed in Portugal that the club earlier rejected a €100 million (£88.4 million) offer because they insisted the player would only go if his release clause was satisfied.
Get Instantly Update By: Joining Our Whatapps and Telegram Channel
The Daily Record claims that Chelsea is preparing a sizable bid for the former River Plate starlet, with United and Liverpool already fighting for his signature.
Todd Boehly, according to the story, has proposed a deal in which Chelsea would fork over more money than the €127 million that Atletico Madrid paid Benfica for Joao Felix in 2019—the club’s record sale. Despite Benfica’s intention to keep Fernandez until the end of the season, the Blues are optimistic that he will try to depart in January.
Following Argentina’s World Cup success on Tuesday, the midfielder flew back to Lisbon, where he will meet with his club this week to examine Chelsea’s offer.
On Monday, Fernandez responded to a question about his future by saying, “I don’t know about my future or suggestions; that’s what my representative is taking care of.
“I don’t want to discuss the topic. I’m concentrating on Benfica because we have a game on Friday.
Earlier this month, Benfica president Rui Costa said that Fernandez won’t be sold unless his release clause is invoked.
No player will leave the team unless it is due to the clause, which is currently essential for the team, he said. “Our only goal is to have a winning season.”
“What I did at the start of the year is what I can guarantee our supporters. This is an athletic endeavor, not a money-related one. Thankfully, we don’t have any financial issues and don’t need to sell any players.