Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez, who has been labelled as “spectacular” by Lionel Messi, has impressed Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez.
The 21-year-old, who plies his trade with Portuguese giants Benfica, scored his first goal for The Albicelestes in last night’s 2-0 win against Mexico.
After losing their World Cup opener against Saudi Arabia, the two-time World Cup winners got their hopes back on track with a win against El Tri.
Fernandez, who was making his fifth cap for Argentina, was introduced by Lionel Scaloni just before the hour mark with the game at the Lusail Iconic Stadium still goalless.
A moment of brilliance from Messi broke the deadlock before Fernandez made sure of the three points by curling the ball into the top corner after collecting a pass from Messi.
Manchester United target Enzo Fernandez impresses Lisandro Martinez
90Min reported earlier this month that Manchester United, who according to Argentine newspaper Ole had scouted Fernandez when he was at his former club River Plate, have revived interest in the South American and are continuing to scout him, claiming the club are watching him ‘closely’.
The Red Devils didn’t firm up their reported interest in Fernandez in the summer and he instead joined Benfica in a deal Fabrizio Romano reported cost a modest £8 million.
Newspaper Sport have previously reported that Fernandez’ value has already skyrocketed up to around £44 million – while he also has a huge release clause in his contract above £100 million, which runs until 2027.
While impressing with Benfica, Fernandez’ stock is only going to rise given his performances at the World Cup.
Argentina’s number 24 will be hoping to start for his country for the first time in the final Group C game against Poland on Wednesday.
Judging by Martinez and Messi’s comments, the all-action midfielder would be a nailed-on starter for the crucial clash against the Poles.
After last night’s influential cameo against Mexico, both Martinez and Messi sung the midfielder’s praises.
Messi said: “I’m not surprised by Enzo (Fernández), I know him and I see him train every day. He deserves it because he’s a spectacular player.”
Martinez commented on his compatriot’s Instagram post: “Do what you want son”.
United’s number six could well be doing his utmost to lure his compatriot to Old Trafford, and if a seven-time Ballon d’Or winner has given his seal of approval by describing him as “spectacular”, Manchester United may have to move fast to avoid missing out on Benfica’s number 13 for a second time.