Following Enzo Fernandez’s outstanding performances for Argentina at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, ex-English striker Alan Shearer has pushed Newcastle United to recruit the midfielder. In a humorous request, the Premier League’s all-time leading scorer urged his former club Newcastle United to ask Fernandez if he would like to participate in their EFL Cup match against Bournemouth on Tuesday night.
The Benfica player began Argentina’s first two games on the sidelines before being inserted into the starting lineup against Poland in the Albiceleste’s final group stage match. For the duration of the competition, Lionel Scaloni’s team would rely heavily on the 21-year-old. Fernandez also produced a terrific performance in Sunday’s final victory over France, as Argentina put up a clinic in midfield, especially in the first half.
Shearer pushed his former club to sign the Benfica player after Argentina defeated France 4-2 on penalties (3-3 after extra time) as Lionel Scaloni’s men lifted the World Cup after a gap of 36 years. When asked if he would want Newcastle to pursue a move for Fernandez, Shearer responded:
“Absolutely, yes. See if he wants to play against Bournemouth on Tuesday.”
It’s unlikely that the Magpies’ pursuit of the midfielder will be simple. The Liverpool Reds have reportedly already established a pre-agreement with Fernandez, according to Argentinian publication La Capital, ahead of a potential summer transfer.
Fernandez was named Young Player of the Tournament after scoring a goal and assisting at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. He has, if reports are to be believed, a 103 million pounds release clause in his contract.
Such being the case, Benfica are unlikely to accept anything less. The Eagles are under no pressure to sell the midfielder either, as his contract with the illustrious Portuguese club expires in June 2027.
Throughout his 120 minutes of play, Fernandez produced a chance, made seven passes into the final third, completed 77 passes with an accuracy rate of 85%, and won seven of his 10 attempted tackles.
