Chelsea fans were singing the praises of a potential midfield target in 2023 as Argentina secured a huge win over Mexico on Saturday evening in the World Cup.
In their second group game, Lionel Messi conjured another moment of magic to spark his last World Cup campaign into life following their shock opening loss to Saudi Arabia on Tuesday.
After Messi's 64th-minute opener from range, midfielder Enzo Fernandez put the gloss on a challenging evening with his 87th-minute strike to wild celebrations. Fernandez has been quickly gaining praise this season for his performances at Benfica, already prompting some chat over a potential transfer in 2023.
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As reported by The Telegraph last week, Chelsea's new owners are expected to focus on midfield recruitment in January and beyond with England duo, Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham name-dropped as major targets currently playing in Qatar.
Fernandez is only 21 and recently made the switch to Europe after a £10million move from River Plate. Via FBref, the midfielder ranks in the 99th percentile for passes attempted, progressive passes, non-penalty xG and shot-creating actions.
Part of the impressive Benfica side under Rui Costa that topped their Champions League group ahead of Paris Saint-Germain, creating two goals and starting five of the six group games for the Portuguese giants.
Playing for one of the tournament favourites is likely to garner more attention as it goes on if Argentina progress from Group C with their final game against Poland on Wednesday evening finely poised after Saturday's results.
Back at Chelsea, a number of options are being assessed as the problematic area for Graham Potter remains an awkward proposition before the Blues return after Christmas.
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