Reported Newcastle United target Enzo Fernandez has spoken out over his future amid speculation he will swap Benfica for the Premier League in January. The Magpies are said to be keen on the Argentinian midfielder, 21, who won the Young Player of the Tournament at the 2022 World Cup.
Fernandez's performances both in Qatar and Portugal have alerted top clubs ahead of next month's transfer window. Newcastle are one of the teams in the mix, along with the likes of Chelsea, Liverpool and Real Madrid.
Asked about his future and a potential Benfica exit while celebrating the World Cup win in Argentina, Fernandez told a crowd of fans: “I don't know anything about that. It's up to my agent, I don't want to get involved.
READ MORE: Newcastle question emphatically answered, Maddison worry and January transfer calls grow - 5 things
"'I'm focused on Benfica, in a few days we have an important game. I have a flight at night to play in the game on Friday."
Newcastle boss Eddie Howe was pressed on Fernandez's World Cup performance and the likelihood Newcastle could make a move for the up and coming midfield star earlier this month. "I’m aware of him (Fernandez), and I know him," he told reporters. "But I think the transfer fee might be quite lumpy."
Responding to Alan Shearer's comments following the final that Fernandez would look good in black and white, Howe added: "I didn’t hear that, I apologise to Alan, I think I was on the other channel! That’s a mistake on my part."
Newcastle may be on the hunt for a new midfielder next month after another injury setback for Jonjo Shelvey. The 30-year-old is expected to miss up to two months of football after picking up a calf issue in training.
The former Liverpool star has only recently recovered from a separate issue as speculation mounts over whether he will be able to trigger a contract extension on Tyneside in the second half of the season.
READ NEXT
Newcastle question emphatically answered, Maddison worry and January transfer calls grow - 5 things
Newcastle United player ratings as Joelinton and Bruno score 10s in Leicester win
Newcastle United rocked by Jonjo Shelvey injury as midfielder faces another spells on sidelines
Newcastle United supporters react to emphatic 3-0 Leicester City win as Magpies move up to second
Alan Shearer hails 'great performance' as Newcastle United dismantle Leicester City
