Liverpool have been handed new valuations for both Jude Bellingham and Enzo Fernandez, just over two weeks before the transfer window opens.
Both midfielders are top targets for the Reds as they look to overhaul that area of Jurgen Klopp 's squad. Bellingham has long been linked with a move to Anfield when he finally departs Borussia Dortmund, having reportedly already held talks with Klopp.
Fernandez meanwhile has emerged as a target over the course of the World Cup, with the 21-year-old starring for Argentina in their run to the final. While Benfica have insisted they will not be selling in January, Liverpool continue to be linked with a move for him.
Their hopes of signing either player appear to have taken a blow though, after both of their valuations were raised by their respective clubs. According to Mundo Deportivo, Bellingham's price tag has skyrocketed to £130million.
His performances at the World Cup is said to have 'raised the value' of his potential transfer away from Dortmund. It is not only Liverpool who are interested though, with Real Madrid said to have made Bellingham their 'main target.
Los Blancos have the 19-year-old 'in their sights' after his stunning performances for both club and country over recent years. Liverpool are thought to be closing in on a deal for him, though a £130m asking price would shatter their current transfer record.
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While Bellingham is their top target, Fernandez is also becoming a top option for Klopp and the Reds. His displays for Argentina have thrust his name into the reckoning for several top European clubs.
Having only signed him in June though, Benfica are desperate to keep hold of him. As a result, the report states that they have set his price tag at the £86.5m mark, which would be one of the most expensive transfer fees in Liverpool history.
Fernandez has a contract until 2027, which makes it unlikely that that price will come down any time soon. Again, Real Madrid are also interested in the 21-year-old and he is on their 'agenda'.
The bidding war for the duo is said to have already begun, with Madrid now on the 'lookout' and Liverpool appearing to be ahead. To sign Fernandez though, both teams will have to overcome the will of Benfica president Rui Costa, who this week insisted he is not for sale.
"We have the sole objective of having a winning season, no player will leave – unless it is due to the clause – which at this moment is fundamental for the squad," the Benfica chief said.
"What I can promise our supporters is what I did at the beginning of the year. This is a sporting project, not a financial one. Fortunately, we are not experiencing financial problems and we have no need to sell players."
