Transfer Talk: Suitors eye breakout star Fernandez after Argentina impact

Enzo Fernandez has made a sizable impact for World Cup hopefuls Argentina — and the breakout star is drawing the attention of clubs around Europe. 

The Benfica midfielder came off the bench in the first two matches in Qatar and has since cemented his place in the starting line-up with some impressive displays. 

Ahead of La Albiceleste’s quarter-final match against the Netherlands, we look at Fernandez’s performances and assess the likelihood of a big-money move in 2023.

Falling for Fernandez

Fernandez only moved from River Plate to the Portuguese capital last summer but has played a big part in Benfica's excellent Champions League campaign. 

Roger Schmidt's men managed to top their group ahead of Paris-Saint Germain and Juventus to secure a last-16 clash with Club Brugge. 

As a result, Liverpool, Manchester United and Real Madrid have all reportedly taken a keen interest in the Eagles talent. 

Fernandez’s release clause is reportedly well over £100million — meaning any potential suitor will need to break the bank to land the South American sensation.

Excellent Enzo

The 21-year-old has started Argentina’s last two games — displaying defensive grit, awareness and passing ability. 

So far, he has won a commendable seven tackles and eight aerial duels while regaining possession 13 times in the middle third. 

Fernandez’s screening of the Argentina defence has contributed to Lionel Scaloni's side facing fewer shots from inside the box than any other team at this stage of the World Cup (10). 

He has also been heavily involved in build-up play, completing 230 passes, eight long balls and taking 293 touches — ranking in the top five for each among all Argentina players.

Pablo praise

Former Manchester City and Argentina right-back Pablo Zabaleta has lauded the youngster's performances for the national team — and claims it will earn him a big move. 

Zabaleta, 37, said: "He's been really good in both games, he's been one of the best players for Argentina. 

"He's only 21 but he's been fantastic and I think next summer, he will go to a big club. 

"He's got vision, his passing and [his] shooting ability is great. He can play as a No4 but also as a No8."

Interested parties

Liverpool have been on the search for a central midfielder, with Thiago Alcantara, Fabinho and loan signing Arthur Melo all struggling for fitness. 

Fernandez’s unique profile — pairing grit and hard running with technical passing — would be a valuable addition to Jurgen Klopp’s squad. 

He could also join countryman Lisandro Martinez at United, potentially partnering Casemiro as Fred sees his contract expire next summer and Erik ten Hag is on the lookout for reinforcements. 

Real Madrid could also seek to add Fernandez to their exciting trio of young midfielders — Eduardo Camavinga, Aurelien Tchouameni and Federico Valverde — particularly after losing Casemiro to the Red Devils.

Netherlands next

Before any potential move, Fernandez must help Argentina overcome their quarter-final opponents the Netherlands. 

Louis van Gaal's men, spearheaded by the attacking threats of Cody Gakpo and Memphis Depay, have produced some impressive performances so far. 

The Oranje will present a different test for Argentina and Fernandez will play an important part if they are to win the midfield battle — particularly against a side that boast Barcelona's Frenkie de Jong. 

With the world watching, any further displays of brilliance will only see Fernandez’s stock rise as clubs plan to pounce on one of Argentina's most promising players.