Benfica reject a massive offer from an unnamed club for Liverpool target Enzo Fernandez

Enzo Fernandez of Benfica
Enzo Fernandez of Benfica

Benfica have reportedly rejected an £88million offer for in-demand midfielder Enzo Fernandez.

The Argentina international is one of the most sought-after players in the world after a stellar campaign with Argentina in the World Cup. The youngster played the entire match as Argentina beat former champions France 4-2 on penalties to win the World Cup on Sunday.

His performance in Qatar led to serious interest from Premier League giants Liverpool, who are said to be keen to sign him.

However, according to reports in Portugal, Benfica have already received a mega £88m bid from an unnamed club for the services of Fernandez. The bid is understood to have come from another European heavyweight.

But according to Record via Sportswitness, the Portuguese club rejected the bid because they are looking for a club that will pay Fernandez’s £105m release clause.

Benfica president Rui Costa is reportedly unwilling to lose him for less than the £105m figure, making him the ninth most expensive transfer in the world. However, the amount demanded for the 21-year-old will likely come as a blow to Liverpool and manager Jurgen Klopp, who is keen on the player.

It is worth noting, though, that Wednesday’s bid was just £17m away and will be a relatively small sum for clubs like Chelsea, Manchester United, Manchester City, Real Madrid and PSG to fork out for a player of that calibre.

As such, Benfica will find it hard to keep Fernandes if that clause is activated. The midfielder only moved to Benfica this summer from Argentine side River Plate and has only been capped ten times by his country.