Manchester United have been linked with a move for Enzo Fernandez in the new year, and now a new update has emerged on the club’s competition for the player’s signature.

What’s the latest?

According to Portuguese news outlet O Jogo, the Red Devils are set to intensify talks to sign the Argentina and Benfica midfielder.

As per the report, Man United are not alone in their aggressive pursuit to sign Fernandez in January with bitter Premier League rivals Liverpool also set to hold further talks to secure the World Cup winner's signature.

It’d be a major coup

After missing out on their target Cody Gakpo to the Merseysiders earlier this week, Manchester United will surely be doing everything in their power to ensure another doesn’t slip through the net.

Erik ten Hag will continue to make his mark on the squad when the transfer market reopens next month after taking over at Old Trafford in the summer and only exploring one transfer window so far.

There is no doubt that the signing of Fernandez would be a major coup for Man United not only to beat their rivals in the acquisition of a talented player but also would be a great long-term prospect for their ageing midfield.

Christian Eriksen and Casemiro have become integral players in the centre of the pitch since their arrival at Old Trafford earlier this year, however, both are now in their 30s and reaching the latter stages of their respective careers.

The 21-year-old Argentine - who was hailed a “game changer” by journalist Roy Nemer - ranks in the top 10% of his positional peers for shots on goal, assists, shot-creating actions, progressive passes and passes attempted, proving that he is one of the hottest prospects in football right now.

Indeed, it would cost a reported €120m (£103m) to trigger Fernandez’s release clause in the new year if the club were to sanction a move for the Benfica star, but considering his age and potential he could be the long-term mainstay in midfield Man United are clearly looking for.

With that being said, building the foundations for a team of the future that can regain the club’s dominance in both the Premier League and European football will surely be the goal for Ten Hag, and signing Fernandez would be a great start.