Report: 21-year-old midfielder would cost Liverpool at least £43m, Argentine could start at World Cup

This comes from Sport. They report on Barcelona’s interest in Enzo Fernández and how the Catalonians could have signed the player for around £10m a year ago.

Fernández would now cost at least £43m if anyone were to try and sign him from Benifca. Barcelona are one of those who could yet give that a go, as are Liverpool and Chelsea.

Any price could rise post-World Cup, however, as the 21-year-old midfielder may start for Argentina. Doing so – and having the performances to justify it – could make Fernández skyrocket in value.

This is far from the first time a report has linked Liverpool with Fernández. O Jogo did the same recently and it’s a move that makes complete sense.

Liverpool will almost certainly overhaul their midfield in 2023. Naby Keita, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and James Milner will all be out of contract. Arthur’s loan deal will expire, too, and it doesn’t appear likely that the Reds will trigger their option to buy.

And with both Jordan Henderson and Thiago in their 30s, there’s a real need to invest. We imagine Jude Bellingham remains on top of any list but Liverpool must have alternatives. They may even fancy signing a couple of talented young midfielder.

Fernández certainly fits that billing. He only joined Benfica at the start of the year but has consistently impressed, even in the Champions League. He’s one of the best 21-and-under midfielders in Europe right now. Liverpool should absolutely hold an interest.

We expect his price rises above £43m but if it’s anywhere near that post-World Cup, expect Liverpool to test the waters.