Barcelona and Liverpool will reportedly face stiff competition from Chelsea in the race to sign Enzo Fernandez, valued at €50 million by Benfica.
According to a report by Spanish outlet SPORT, Enzo Fernandez is the subject of interest from Chelsea. The Blues have joined Liverpool and Barcelona in the race to sign the Argentine international from Enzo Fernandez. Benfica will demand around €50 million for him.
Enzo Fernandez rose to prominence at River Plate, where he spent 16 years of his youth and professional career. The 21-year-old particularly grew in stature in the last two seasons, capturing the attention of several European bigwigs. But Benfica prised him away from River Plate this past summer.
The Argentine international has taken no time to establish himself as a pivotal figure for Benfica. Fernandez has featured in every game thus far for the Portuguese giants, managing three goals and two assists in 18 appearances. And his performances have alerted several high-profile clubs, including Barcelona, Liverpool, and Chelsea.
Barcelona will likely invest in a midfielder next summer as Sergio Busquets is approaching the end of his glittering career. In addition, Frenkie de Jong continues to face an uncertain future at Camp Nou, with recent reports linking him with Manchester United. Enzo Fernandez has thus emerged as a viable target for Barcelona.
As for Liverpool, the Reds will aim to bolster their midfield unit next summer after a faltering start to the 2022/23 season. James Milner is in the twilight of his career, while Jordan Henderson has shown signs of regression. In addition, Thiago Alcantara, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, and Naby Keita’s injury woes have prompted Liverpool to look for a midfielder. And Enzo Fernandez has emerged on their radar.
Meanwhile, Chelsea might have to replace either or both of N’Golo Kante and Jorginho. The two ageing stalwarts are in the final year of their respective careers, with both emerging on Barcelona’s radar. In addition, Kante’s fitness issues have compelled Chelsea to look at someone like Enzo Fernandez as a long-term solution.
Barcelona interestingly had the chance to sign the Argentine international for just €10 million once. But the Blaugrana, Liverpool, Chelsea, and other suitors will have to fork out €50 million to secure his services. It will be interesting to see if the pursuing clubs are ready to pay €50 million
