Liverpool have been dealt a potential blow in their reported pursuit of Enzo Fernandez.
The Reds have been heavily linked with a move for the Benfica midfielder, who starred in the World Cup for Argentina. Fernandez helped his country win the tournament and claimed the Young Player Award, which has led to increased rumours around his future.
But even before his eye-catching displays in Qatar, the 21-year-old had been tipped to join Liverpool. However, according to a report in Brazilian news outlet UOL Sport , Manchester United have now entered the race to sign Fernandez.
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The report claims that United are prepared for a 'strong fight' with their Premier League rivals for the rising star and, given they are prepared to match his release clause when the transfer window opens next week, they are in a 'better position' to complete a deal. Fernandez's release clause is reported to be £106m.
The report contradicts what Diario La Capital in Argentina wrote last week. They claimed that Liverpool had reached an agreement with Benfica to sign Fernandez next summer.
Senior Anfield sources were quick to dismiss those reports, however. The ECHO understands there is currently no agreement in place for Fernandez, but the dismissal of that particular claim does not necessarily mean there is no interest in the player.
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