Liverpool surprised their dedicated fanbase by signing the talented Cody Gakpo just before the January window opened. But some fans are still of the opinion that the Reds need to sign a midfielder in January to reinforce their team. Enter Enzo Fernandez.
The Argentinean midfielder has been linked with a move to Liverpool in January, but that's if they can cough up his €120m release clause. From the look of things, Fernandez may not arrive at Anfield this winter even if Liverpool are ready to pay that money. Here's why.
Fernadez needs to submit a transfer request. According to reports, the midfielder must ask to leave Benfica before his release clause can be activated by the buying club. That doesn't seem likely in January.
Benfica have to sanction his departure. With the help of Fernandez, Benfica are unbeaten in the league and have reached the Champions League knockout stage. Selling the 21-year-old before the season ends would be tantamount to shooting themselves in the foot. According to The Times, Benfica have already asked him to hold off leaving until the summer.
There's a strong demand for the midfielder. Liverpool are not the only club interested in the Benfica star. Real Madrid are monitoring the player. Chelsea are said to have approached Benfica and are ready to pay whatever it takes to get him. If the Blues offer more money than the Reds, his destination could change in a matter of hours.
Liverpool can manage without Fernandez. Liverpool may do without spending as much as €120m on a midfielder before the end of the season. Naby Keita has fully recovered from his injury and Thiago seems to be fine for now. James Milner and Arthur are not far from returning to action too. There's certainly no need for another panic buy.
