Man Utd ‘advancing’ in Enzo Fernandez talks as mystery bid ‘set to trigger release clause’ | Football | Sport

Manchester United are reportedly advancing in their pursuit of World Cup-winning midfielder Enzo Fernandez. The Argentina hero has just arrived back at Benfica with interested parties set to ramp up their efforts over the coming days, and super-agent Jorge Mendes supposedly has hold of a bid that will trigger his release clause. 

Fernandez was only starting to become a household name in the lead-up to the World Cup, having switched River Plate for Benfica in the summer. Followers of Portuguese football were already wise to his eye-catching talent, but big clubs truly sat up and took note when he repeated those performances in Qatar. 

Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni took some persuading to phase Fernandez into the side but he eventually listened to fans’ cries and didn’t look back thereafter. Following a series of commanding performances, including in the final against France, the 21-year-old was named the Best Young Player at the tournament. 

Benfica are aware that serious interest is sure to be fired their way in January but they have attempted to warn off suitors by demanding the full extent of his reported £105million release clause. 

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“I don’t know about my future or proposals, that’s what my representative is taking care of,” said Fernandez when quizzed on his future this week. “I don’t want to get into the subject. I am focused on Benfica, we have a game on Friday.”

United are thought to be out of the running for another fine young midfielder in Jude Bellingham with Liverpool, Manchester City and Real Madrid each putting forward their own case ahead of a move in 2023.