Manchester United are prepared to beat Liverpool in the race to sign Enzo Fernandez by triggering the €120 million release clause in his Benfica contract.
The Argentine star joined Benfica from River Plate for an initial fee of €10 million last summer and he has since been hugely impressive across all competitions.
The 21-year-old has eight goal contributions in 24 games for his club. This has included key assists against Juventus and Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League.
It is now reported by UOL Esporte that the Red Devils are ready to activate the €120m (£106m) buy-out clause in his contract next month in order to beat Liverpool in the race.
Jurgen Klopp’s side recently failed with a club-record €100m bid (£88.5m) for the highly-rated midfielder.
Man Utd can make huge statement with Fernandez deal
Fernandez was scouted by United towards the end of last season and they were suggestions that the club could make a formal approach to sign him during the summer transfer window.
However, the Red Devils never made an official bid for him. He ended up joining Benfica for €10m plus €8 million in add-ons. The club’s hierarchy are probably regretting their decision.