Liverpool, Manchester United and Chelsea target Enzo Fernandez reportedly defied orders to not travel home for the New Year - a move likely to anger his parent club Benfica.
Fernandez was one of the break-out stars of the World Cup. His performances in midfield for eventual champions Argentina saw him crowned the Young Player of the Tournament and put him on the radar of Europe’s biggest clubs.
United were rumoured to be interested while Liverpool were reported to have struck a pre-contract agreement with the star last month.
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However, it seems Chelsea have won the race for the 21-year-old. The MailOnline claim the Blues have reportedly made a £112million offer to Benfica for Fernandez.
The proposal is above the youngster’s £106million buy-out clause, but would reportedly be paid in three instalments of £37.3m over three years.
The move is growing ever more likely after the Argentine reportedly defied club orders not to travel home for New Year.
Enzo Fernandez defies Benfica orders
Portuguese outlet A Bola claim Fernandez risked angering Benfica by defying orders not to travel home for the New Year.
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The publication alleged that the act had been viewed as an attempt by the player and his agent to force a move from the club. The star is now said to be “increasingly unlikely” to remain at the Benfica, with Chelsea in hot pursuit.
Fernandez's manager Uriel Perez posted photos of the midfielder celebrating New Year’s Eve in Buenos Aires.
Perez wrote on Instagram: “How beautiful to say goodbye to 2022 and start 2023 in this way. Happy New Year everyone and stay positive from now on.”
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Benfica fans responded angrily to the post, with the comments now having been turned off.
Roger Schmidt on Benfica rules
Fernandez returned to Benfica following the World Cup, with the player reportedly having been convinced to play in their 3-0 defeat to Braga on Friday night.
However, Benfica head coach Roger Schmidt claimed after the match the midfielder may have played his final game for the Eagles.
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Moreover, when Schmidt was asked whether Fernandez would have permission to return to Argentina to celebrate the New Year, he insisted his squad would stay in Portugal to rest between matches.
The Benfica boss said via the MailOnline: “We are a professional football team, the rules are for all players.
“It is very important for all players to rest between games, to be ready for the next game. There are no exceptions to that.”
Featured Image Credit: AlamyTopics: Football, Benfica, Liverpool, Chelsea, Manchester United, Enzo Fernandez, Transfers