Liverpool are plotting a move to sign Benfica midfielder Enzo Fernandez in January, according to reports.

The Lowdown: Nunes and Fernandez?

The Reds signed Arthur Melo on a season-long loan from Juventus in the summer to provide cover for the ongoing injury crisis, but that hasn’t stopped FSG from beginning their preparations for the upcoming window.

Matheus Nunes is believed to be one of the top names on Jurgen Klopp’s wishlist, but he isn’t the only player to have recently moved to a new club that is already being linked with an exit.

The 21-year-old Fernandez has just signed for the Portuguese giants from River Plate, but it appears that the Merseyside outfit are keen to bring him to the Premier League.

The Latest: Liverpool eyeing Fernandez

According to Brazilian outlet UOL (via Sport Witness), Fernandez is ‘being watched’ by Liverpool alongside the interest in Nunes, with his name ‘on the rise behind the scenes’ at Anfield.

The source reports that Jorge Mendes is the agent who completed his previous transfer from River Plate to Benfica, and he is claimed to have a ‘close and trusty’ relationship with Reds transfer guru Julian Ward.

The Verdict: Bellingham alternative?

Whilst Liverpool are known to be long-term admirers of Jude Bellingham, there are several clubs chasing his signature, so it’s probably wise to have a backup in case the deal falls through.

The Argentinian, dubbed an ‘orchestrator’ by football talent scout Jacek Kulig, currently averages 2.3 shots and 1.2 key passes per Primeira Liga game, and has already got one goal in six showings this term (WhoScored).

This ability to create chances and contribute from the midfield is something that Klopp desperately needs, and Fernandez could be the perfect alternative to Bellingham if the club were to have a change of heart.