Exciting transfer news has emerged for Manchester United and Erik ten Hag in what could be a monumental Christmas present for the trophy-chasing Premier League outfit…

Enzo Fernandez has emerged as one of the most sought-after stars after his exploits at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, but United’s interest stems from soil preceding the international tournament, with 90min labelling the club as keen observers at the start of last month.

And in recent days, journalist Bruno Andrade has suggested that United have overtaken Liverpool in the race to sign the talented midfielder who possesses a seismic €120m (£105m) release clause.

Should United seal a deal, it could allude to a watershed moment at the Theatre of Dreams, cementing the maiden period of Ten Hag’s reign with a signing fit to steer the club towards success scarcely seen since the retirement of coveted manager Sir Alex Ferguson in 2013 after 26 years in charge.

Upon the conclusion of the World Cup, Fernandez sauntered up the steps of the milky white podium to claim his Best Young Player award, having basked in the glory of triumph on the biggest stage mere moments before. 

United already held intrigue, but his performances would have done little to deter a forthcoming bid, despite the inevitable spike in price for the SL Benfica phenom. 

Indeed, rated at £17.6m in September by Transfermarkt, Fernandez now perches among the very elite of football’s prodigious talent with a value of £48.4m.