Report: Club worried Newcastle are about to trigger Man Utd & Liverpool target’s release clause

Follow us on Google Discover

Newcastle could now be about to beat Manchester United and Liverpool to the signing of Enzo Fernandez.

What’s the story?

Well, that is according to A Bola in Portugal, who believe Benfica are now worried about Newcastle triggering the Argentina international’s €120m (£106m) release clause.

It comes just days after South American news outlet UOL claimed that Manchester United had overtaken Liverpool in the race to sign Fernandez, who is still back home celebrating after winning the World Cup with Argentina.

The 21-year-old shone for his country in Qatar, winning the Silver Ball award – given to the best young player of the tournament.

A Bola believe the chances of Fernandez leaving Benfica in January are now strong, with Newcastle – backed by their Saudi Arabian owners – seemingly prepared to take advantage of his release clause.

If this rumour turns out to be true, it would see the Magpies smash their club-record transfer fee by some margin.

As things stand, the £63m deal to sign Alexander Isak from Real Sociedad is Newcastle’s current record signing.

So far this season, Fernandez has made 24 appearances in all competitions for Benfica, scoring three goals while also providing five assists from central midfield.

Newcastle sense an opportunity with Manchester United & Liverpool target

In our view, Eddie Howe senses an opportunity to take advantage of Newcastle’s current position in the Premier League.

Monday’s 3-0 win over Leicester took the Magpies to second place in the Premier League, and in our opinion, Howe is keen for his Newcastle side not to lose any momentum as they find themselves in with a real chance of qualifying for the Champions League.

As the likes of Chelsea and Liverpool struggle this season, Newcastle really could finish in the top four – signing Fernandez would provide the Magpies with a huge boost as they look to achieve that feat.

Keep an eye on this saga, as the Argentina international now looks set to be heading to the Premier League.