Liverpool 'still interested in £106m Benfica midfielder Enzo Fernandez'

Liverpool are reportedly still keeping tabs on Benfica midfielder Enzo Fernandez ahead of a potential future move.

The 21-year-old was one of a number of midfielders linked to Liverpool over the course of the summer, despite him having only joined Benfica from River Plate in June.

The Reds eventually brought in Arthur Melo on loan from Juventus to bolster their midfield ranks on deadline day, but it is understood that they are still on the lookout for further additions in that area of the field.

Borussia Dortmund and England star Jude Bellingham is thought to be at the top of their list, while the likes of Moises Caicedo, Konrad Laimer and Douglas Luiz have also been mentioned as possible options.

Portuguese outlet O Jogo reports that Fernandez is also still on Liverpool's radar, and that they could even consider a move for the youngster in January.

However, the report goes on to claim that Benfica would not be willing to let him leave midway through the season unless his £106m release clause is met, while Fernandez himself would prefer to wait until the summer before considering his options.

Liverpool would also be unwilling to pay that £106m buyout clause, but could weigh up an approach for a reduced sum next summer.

Benfica paid £16m to bring Fernandez to Portugal this summer, and would be open to selling him on for a substantial profit.

The midfielder made his international debut for Argentina last week, coming on as a second-half substitute in the 3-0 friendly win over Honduras.