Liverpool 'reach pre-contract agreement' with "spectacular" World Cup star, it's a major blow for Man Utd

Liverpool have reportedly reached a pre-contract agreement with Argentina international Enzo Fernandez.

The 21-year-old has been linked with a move to the Premier League in January, with both Liverpool and Manchester United considering bidding for the midfielder.

Fernandez has scored three goals in 24 appearances for Benfica since joining the Portuguese club from Argentine side River Plate in June.

He has also made eight appearances for Argentina, with five of those coming at the World Cup in Qatar.

Fernandez scored in Argentina's win over Mexico in Group C and has started their last three matches at the tournament, including the knockout wins over Australia and the Netherlands.

He is expected to keep his place in the side when Argentina face Croatia in their semi-final on Tuesday.

Fernandez, who was described as "spectacular" by his international Lionel Messi earlier in the tournament, is now being strongly linked with a move to Liverpool.

Portuguese outlet Record and Diario AS in Spain, via The Mirror, have reported that the player has reached a pre-agreement with Jurgen Klopp's side ahead of a possible move to Anfield.

However, both outlets claim the report has originated in the other country, with neither claiming it as their own.

Liverpool are keen to sign midfield reinforcements after missing out on Aurelien Tchouameni in the summer, with the France international joining Real Madrid from Monaco instead.

Liverpool are thought to be the favourites to sign Jude Bellingham from Borussia Dortmund but could be lining up Fernandez as potential option if that move fails.

Fernandez is believed to have a release clause of €120 million (£103 million) in his Benfica contract.

Could Fernandez leave Benfica?

Earlier this year, before his move from River Plate to Benfica, Fernandez was asked about a possible transfer to Manchester United or Real Madrid, who were both linked with him at the time.

He told TyC Sports: "Calmly, humbly, with a low profile. I try to work day by day to keep improving and growing.

"Luckily I'm finding regularity, continuity and my teammates and the coaching staff help me a lot. I handle it well.

"I'm grateful for the compliments, I read a lot of the messages they send and I'm happy.

"I will continue on this path."