Liverpool and Enzo Fernandez have been mentioned a lot recently as Jürgen Klopp aims to sign the Benfica maestro.
Portuguese news outlet Record claimed that Liverpool had convinced the Argentina international to move to Anfield.
Grant Hotel Calciomercato added that the Reds were preparing a significant bid after positive discussions with Fernandez.
However, it now looks as if the South American will stay at Benfica.
What’s the story?
Well, after being dropped by Roger Schmidt with the transfer speculation intensifying significantly, Fernandez was back with a bang for Benfica on Tuesday night in their 2-0 win over Varzim.
The Argentine – who Benfica paid just €18m (£16m) for – scored his side’s second goal in the 78th minute, and proceeded to send a clear message to his supporters.
As you can see, Fernandez passionately slaps the Benfica badge and points to the ground, as if to say he is going nowhere this month.
Schmidt has since poured cold water on any lingering flames in this transfer saga, sternly stating that the 21-year-old is “one of our players” and the “subject is over”.
Chelsea thought they had signed Fernandez a few days ago, with Gianluca Di Marzio stating that a British record €127m (£112m) deal was close to being completed.
However, Schmidt then hit out at the Blues for messing Benfica around, calling Chelsea “disrespectful” for the way in which they handled negotiations.
That came as something of a boost for Liverpool as their main rivals for Fernandez somewhat burned their bridges with Benfica, although it now seems as if Klopp will also have to look elsewhere – for now.
Liverpool must keep Enzo Fernandez in mind
Klopp needs midfield reinforcements now, but regardless of who the German signs this month, he should definitely keep an eye on Fernandez and his situation at Benfica.
The South American proved himself as one of the best around by winning the Silver Ball at the World Cup – given to the best young player at the tournament.
At the age of just 21, the sky is the limit for Fernandez, and it would be a crushing blow if Liverpool lost out on him to a Premier League rival such as Chelsea.
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