Manchester City have been credited with an interest in Benfica sensation Enzo Fernandez recently and the Argentine’s potential arrival could see Pep Guardiola ruthlessly ditch summer signing Kalvin Phillips.
According to recent reports from Spain, Fernandez is top of Guardiola’s list as the Spanish manager looks to add another central midfielder to his squad at the Etihad.
The initial report claims that City have liked the World Cup winner since his previous spell with River Plate but if they are to prise him away from the Portuguese giants this year, they could have to pay his €120m (£105m) release clause.
The 22-year-old has risen to prominence over the past few months as a result of his phenomenal performances with both Benfica and Argentina, who he helped win the World Cup in Qatar last month, contributing one goal and one assist in seven appearances for Lionel Scaloni’s side, which led journalist Kwadwo Sheldon to label him a “cheat-code.”
After he scored in the crucial group stage win over Mexico, Lionel Messi was quick to sing the praises of his young teammate and given his reputation as arguably the best to ever do it, Fernandez certainly seems nailed on for a career at the top.
Messi said:
“I’m not surprised by Enzo. I know him and I see him train every day. He deserves it because he’s a spectacular player.”
He has also caught the eye in the Portuguese top flight, registering one goal and five assists for Benfica in 17 appearances, averaging a superb 7.23 rating from WhoScored for his performances.
Guardiola’s side have looked like a shadow of their former self on occasion this season, with new signing Phillips failing to make any real impression since his summer switch from Leeds United.
The England international has made just one start in all competitions for the Citizens, with Rodri very much the first-choice in defensive midfield, but the arrival of Fernandez could allow Guardiola to return to a double-pivot in the middle of the park.
If we compare the 22-year-old’s stats with Phillips‘ from last season, the Argentine leads the way in nearly all the offensive metrics, averaging more shots (1.7 vs 0.8), key passes (1.8 vs 0.5) and dribbles (0.6 vs 0.4) per game.
Given their respective ages and form so far this season, as well as Phillips’ concerning injury record, Guardiola could certainly cut the Englishman’s spell at City short should Fernandez arrive at the Etihad this year.
