Arsenal have now made contact with the representatives of Argentina star Enzo Fernandez as sporting director Edu eyes a move, according to reports. 

The Lowdown: Arteta set for backing...

Their status as Premier League frontrunners hasn't deterred Emirates Stadium hierarchy as recent claims suggest that manager Mikel Arteta could be set for financial backing heading into January.

Suggestions emerged that they're even contenders to sign former Man United star turned free agent Cristiano Ronaldo, whilst a move for Shakhtar Donetsk forward Mykhalo Mudryk is still very much in the pipeline.

After his scintillating World Cup performances for Lionel Scaloni's eventual winners, Benfica midfielder Fernandez is attracting real interest - and Arsenal cannot be excluded.

The Latest: Edu makes contact for Fernandez...

As per Portuguese sources, it appears the Gunners, and by extension transfer chief Edu, have thrown their hat in the ring as they eye a move for the 21-year-old.

O Jogo (via Foot Mercato) claim Arsenal are one of many clubs to have 'sounded out' the player's representatives over a potential move to north London.

Alongside them, Real Madrid, FC Barcelona, ​​Atlético de Madrid, Manchester City, Manchester United, Chelsea, Paris-Saint Germain and their north London rivals have made an approach.

However, Benfica are set to demand a marquee price tag to sell next month - his whole €120 million (£105m) release clause.

The Verdict: Make the move?

It will take significant investment to persuade Fernandez' club part ways, yet the queue of interested clubs and his brilliant campaign in Qatar show he could be worth the effort.

The South American won the World Cup's Young Player of the Tournament award and his form at club level has also been noteworthy, with Argentina correspondent Roy Nemer calling him 'exciting' before the tournament even began.

Arsenal, if they can win the race, would gift Arteta with a supremely talented asset.