Liverpool have shown an interest in signing Benfica midfielder Enzo Fernandez before deadline day ends, according to reliable journalist Melissa Reddy.

The Lowdown: Midfield search continues

Injuries to the likes of Thiago, Naby Keita, Curtis Jones and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain have left the Reds in a perilous situation, with midfield options severely lacking.

It means there is a real need to bring in a new signing before the Thursday night cutoff, or risk leaving Jurgen Klopp with a far weaker-looking squad until at least January.

A number of players have been linked with solving the issue - such as Ruben Neves and Frenkie De Jong - but a new name has now been thrown into the mix.

The Latest: Fernandez scouted

Writing for Sky Sports, Reddy claimed that Julian Ward and Liverpool scouts have kept a 'watching brief' on Fernandez, following his move from River Plate to Benfica.

No bid has been tabled but he appears to be someone who could potentially be a late-window target.

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The Verdict: Feels increasingly unlikely

As frustrating as it will be for many supporters, it does feel as though the chances of Liverpool signing a new midfielder are diminishing all the time, with Klopp only wanting someone who is close to the perfect fit.

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It is an approach that has worked superbly throughout his tenure, in fairness, but this is a desperate situation and the Reds need to take a punt on someone who could end up being more of a gamble. If not, their season could be affected greatly.

And Fernandez is a player who would be an exciting addition, with Premier League legend Robert Pires once saying that he 'loved' watching him and that he 'gives solutions' for his teammates, suggesting the 21-year-old could bring much some much-need guile in the middle of the park.

Talent scout Jacek Kulig delivered an in depth profile on the player when Benfica brought him to Europe, describing the youngster as a 'fantastic midfielder' and a 'playmaker' with great technique, versatility, 'very high' football IQ and top tackling ability.