Sources at Benfica reveal just how close Fernandez is to joining Liverpool

Sources at Benfica have given an update on the status of Liverpool's interest in signing midfielder Enzo Fernandez.

Fernandez is currently at the World Cup in Qatar with Argentina and, despite starting the tournament on the bench, has worked his way into the starting XI and produced a series of impressive performances.

He is now set to contest the World Cup final on Sunday, with Argentina taking on France in the showpiece event.

The tournament has only served to improve Fernandez's growing reputation amongst the football world, with the midfielder having starred for Benfica thus far this season.

He only signed for the club in the summer from Argentinian giants River Plate - but it appears he could already be set to move on.

That is because, as per Portuguese outlet Record, Liverpool have negotiated a 'pre-agreement' with the player over a move to Anfield.

Now, Benfica have revealed how close a move to the Reds is to happening.

Benfica provide Enzo Fernandez Liverpool update

90min claim that the Portuguese giants will only sell Fernandez if interested clubs meet the €120 million release clause contained within his Benfica contract.

That may put off some clubs, and would break Liverpool's existing transfer record if they were to splash out such a large fee.

But sources have also told the same outlet that talk of an agreement with the Reds over the signing of Fernandez is 'premature', and that the Portuguese club are unaware of any such agreement.

In addition, it is claimed that Liverpool have only registered their interest in the midfielder at this stage.

With Fernandez fully focused on the World Cup currently, however, this deal may well be one that reaches its conclusion once the tournament ends.

Benfica are not back in league action until December 30, when they take on Braga. The January transfer window, of course, opens two days later, meaning that if the Reds can get a deal done quickly, Fernandez may have played his last game in a Benfica shirt.

Topics: Enzo Fernandez, Benfica, Liverpool, Premier League, Argentina, Football World Cup, Transfers

Ryan Smart

Live in constant hope of the top flight as a Preston North End fan. Written in the past for SPORF, GiveMeSport and more.