Soccer Football - FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 - Round of 16 - Argentina v Australia - Ahmad bin Ali Stadium, Al Rayyan, Qatar - December 3, 2022 Argentina's Enzo Fernandez in action with Australia's Mitchell Duke REUTERS/Paul Childs
Tottenham Hotspur have made contact with the representatives of Argentina star Enzo Fernandez, according to reports.
The Lowdown: Fernandez in demand…
One of the breakout stars of this year’s 2022 World Cup in Qatar, the 21-year-old dazzled under manager Lionel Scaloni as the South American side went on to win the tournament in dramatic fashion.
The Benfica midfielder featured in every single game for Argentina and ranked in their top five best players by average match rating, making more tackles per 90 than any of his teammates (WhoScored).
Fernandez’ stock has risen dramatically as a result with a host of Premier League sides taking real interest, including Antonio Conte’s side.
The Latest: Spurs make contact…
As per Portuguese source, Spurs are one of many clubs to have thrown their hat in the ring as the north Londoners eye a move.
Newspaper O Jogo (via Foot Mercato) claim Tottenham have ‘sounded out’ the representatives of Fernandez as they hold agent talks.
However, they are not alone, with north London rivals Arsenal, Paris-Saint Germain, Real Madrid, FC Barcelona, ​​Atlético de Madrid, Manchester City, Manchester United, Chelsea and Inter all doing the same.
It’s also added that Benfica will be stubborn when it comes to selling in January and will demand no less than Fernandez’ €120 million (£105m) release clause.
The Verdict: Make the move?
His £105m demand represents a very tricky obstacle for sporting director Fabio Paratici and this may be one that could have to wait until the summer.
If Fernandez hasn’t been snapped up by then, the starlet would certainly add real quality to Conte’s squad at Hotspur Way.
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Called a ‘beast’ by members of the media, Argentina’s star won the World Cup’s Young Player of the Tournament and was a colossal midfield presence.
It’s no surprise the Lilywhites have taken interest, but it may well be an uphill battle.
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