Real Madrid have reportedly pivoted away from Borussia Dortmund s Jude Bellingham and are now treating Benfica s Enzo Fernandez as their top transfer target.
Bellingham, 19, was considered the top priority for the Spanish giants, but a report from Marca claims they now believe he is destined for the Premier League and will instead focus their resources on 21-year-old Fernandez.
Fernandez arrived at Benfica in June after they were able to pry him away from River Plate for a deal worth up to €18million including add-ons, but his exploits on the Champions League stage – including assists against Paris Saint-Germain and Juventus – have that price looking like a steal.
TOP STORY – REAL MADRID SET THEIR SIGHTS ON ARGENTINA S NEW STAR
Fernandez was handed his international debut as a 20-year-old back in November 2021, and his continued growth on the European stage earned his spot in Argentina s World Cup squad.
Not content to purely come along for the ride, Fernandez was brought on as a substitute in each of his side s first two group games, and against Mexico he became Argentina s youngest goalscorer at a World Cup since Lionel Messi in 2006.
His ability to both break into and perform for such a quality international side – entering the tournament on a 35-match unbeaten streak before falling to Saudi Arabia – has reportedly sent Fernandez s transfer value through the roof.
Marca s report claims he is now viewed as a €100m talent by Benfica, and they expect to field offers in that neighbourhood soon.
ROUND-UP
– According to Relevo, Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag views the Netherlands World Cup hero Cody Gakpo as his ideal replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo.
– Fichajes is reporting Liverpool, Chelsea, Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain are all showing interest in 22-year-old Ajax midfielder Mohammed Kudus amid his excellent performances for Ghana.
– Bayern Munich remain interested in Tottenham s Harry Kane and are working on an offer between €80-100m, per Sky Sports Germany.
– The Sun is reporting Chelsea are not happy with both Edouard Mendy and Kepa Arrizabalaga and will look to bring in a new first-choice goalkeeper.
– With Rafael Leao likely leaving Milan at the end of the season, Gazzetta dello Sport claims they will try to fill the void with RB Salzburg s 22-year-old Swiss international Noah Okafor.
