Enzo Fernandez: Man United favourites to sign World Cup-winning midfielder, with agents ready to negotiate

Manchester United have missed out on signing Cody Gakpo, but look increasingly likely to secure talented midfielder Enzo Fernandez from Benfica.

According to the latest reports from the reliable Gaston Edul, The Reds are leading the way as favourites to get the Argentine’s signature. Liverpool, who swooped in and signed Gakpo, and Real Madrid follow closely behind.

This follows on from news last week which revealed that the World Cup-winning midfielder is a priority for the club in 2023.

It was also added that Fernandez’s representatives have travelled with him to Portugal as he returns to Benfica duty following celebrations with his country.

This is so they are able to help him negotiate a contract if a club is willing to trigger his €120 million release clause. Portuguese reporter Bruno Andrade says that United have privately admitted they’d pay the staggering amount for the midfielder next month.

United strengthened their engine room in the summer with the signings of Casemiro and Christian Eriksen, although both players are on the wrong side of thirty.

Fernandez would be a great addition for The Reds and, at just 21 years of age, he could become a key player in Erik ten Hag’s revolution at Old Trafford.

All eyes are on the midfielder after his stellar showing at the winter World Cup. It was only six months ago that he moved from River Plate to Benfica for a complete package of just €18 million.

Ten Hag has also admitted that United need a striker in the January transfer window after Cristiano Ronaldo’s exit last month.

The Reds do not usually splash the cash in mid-season transfer windows, however, it could be an incentive for the Glazer family, who are planning to sell the club, in order to maximize the value of the club with Champions League football next season.