Benfica turn down €100m offer for World Cup star Enzo Fernandez

Benfica have rejected an offer worth €100 million from an unnamed club for Enzo Fernandez, according to a report from the Portuguese outlet Record.

Fernandez is one of the hottest properties in Europe at the moment after helping Argentina win the FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar. He was eventually named the best young player of the tournament.

The 21-year-old was snapped up by Benfica from River Plate FC in the summer for around €20m amid competition from top clubs.

His value appears to have increased stratospherically following his spectacular World Cup campaign in Qatar.

A host of European giants, including Liverpool, Real Madrid, Newcastle United and Barcelona, have been credited with an interest in Fernandez.

However, Benfica insist that they are not willing to listen to offers below €120m and especially, they are not considering the sale of their prized asset in January.

Liverpool and Real Madrid are said to be the favourites to sign the Argentine should he leave the Portuguese giants.

Both the clubs are ready to splash the cash for the LA Albliceleste youngster, but they may have to wait until next summer for the opportunity.

The Reds could turn their attention towards Fiorentina midfielder Sofyan Amrabat as an alternative for January.

The Moroccan midfielder was one of the standout performers in the World Cup, as he was instrumental in his side reaching the semi-finals.

With his contract at Fiorentina expiring at the end of the season, Amrabat is not interested in renewal as he wants to take the next step in his career.

Elsewhere, Los Blancos are not planning for any major reinforcements in the winter, but they are keen to add any of Fernandez or Jude Bellingham next summer.

Bellingham remains a long-term target for the Merseysiders, but Los Merengues are looking to throw a spanner in the works.