Liverpool appear to be one step closer to signing World Cup star Enzo Fernandez, as Benfica have seemingly signed a midfield replacement.
According to La Gazzetta Express, the Liga Portugal outfit are set to sign former Anfield star Emre Can on loan for the remainder of the season.
It is believed the Borussia Dortmund player will join Benfica on an initial loan deal, but they will have the option to buy him in the summer.
As per Portuguese outlet O Jogo, Jurgen Klopp’s side have struck an agreement with Fernandez’s agent ahead of January. It is said the Merseyside club are the 21-year-old’s ‘priority’ heading into the winter transfer window.
Could pave the way for Enzo?
Having played a major part in Argentina coming away with the World Cup trophy, Fernandez was crowned Young Player of the Tournament.
Following this incredible campaign, huge interest has thus emerged surrounding the Benfica starlet.
Liverpool are very keen to land the youngster at Anfield, having been extremely impressed by the 21-year-old’s abilities – even prior to his breakthrough in Qatar.
The Portuguese club are somewhat reluctant to sell, and rightly so. However, the midfielder can technically be lured away, with his £103m release clause the last hurdle standing in the way.
Benfica are seemingly taking measures against this. By signing Can, who played for the Reds on 167 occasions, it appears they have lined up a direct replacement for the Argentine.
Whilst this might not be the case, this would be a strange signing to make, given the club seem happy with the partnership of Florentino and Fernandez in the middle.
Therefore, the Portuguese outfit may have secured a replacement signing for the youngster, who could be bound for Anfield in January.
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