Liverpool are still leading the charge to sign Borussia Dortmund and England star Jude Bellingham, according to a report by The Athletic.

The Lowdown: Fernandez agreement

Liverpool are in desperate need of midfield reinforcements, with Fabinho and Jordan Henderson looking past their best while Thiago and Naby Keita continually struggle to stay fit for extended periods of time.

Reports from Argentina on Monday evening brought good news in that regard, with the South American press (via The Liverpool Echo) claiming the Reds have reached an agreement in principle to sign Argentina star Fernandez.

The Benfica youngster missed a penalty against the Netherlands at the weekend, but his stock has no doubt risen in Qatar, while his release clause sits at £103m. And while some may suspect a deal for the 21 year-old means no Bellingham, the latest reports suggest the Englishman could follow Fernandez to Anfield.

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The Latest: Leading the race

In his report on mooted transfer dealings around some of the World Cup’s most talked about stars, esteemed journalist David Ornstein has dropped an exciting revelation for Liverpool fans.

Stating that his rise has made him a dream transfer target for the majority of football’s biggest sides, Ornstein says other clubs believe the Reds are in front for the 19-year-old’s signature. 

Liverpool are expected to be among the small number of outfits who can meet Dortmund’s asking price, which may be inflated as a result of his recent performances for England.

The Verdict: Get them both in!

Ornstein’s latest update bodes very well for optimistic Liverpool fans. 

Having already endured a beautifully consistent rise to the top of the footballing food chain over the last few seasons, Bellingham has added to his stardom with an eye catching World Cup campaign in which he asserted himself as one of England’s brightest stars.

Aforementioned, the Reds’ engine room could well need a complete overhaul in the next 18 months, and while signing both Fernandez and Bellingham could prove a very costly venture, it would turn an ageing weakness in Jurgen Klopp's squad into an exhilarating strength.