Manchester United are now leading Chelsea in the race to sign Benfica star and World Cup winner Enzo Fernandez, according to reports.

According to Bruno Andrade, Manchester United are willing to pay the €120m release clause of the Argentine midfielder to avoid any competition.

The Red Devils are already reportedly holding talks with Benfica and the representatives of the midfielder to seal a move for the midfielder.

The 21 year old midfielder played a key role in Argentina’s World Cup success and was named Best Young Player of the World Cup.

Fernandez did not feature from the start in either of his nation’s opening two World Cup games but was included in the line-ups for each of the next five matches, including the dramatic final victory over France.

Fernandez did not feature from the start in either of his nation’s opening two World Cup games but was included in the line-ups for each of the next five matches, including the dramatic final victory over France.

The 21 year old midfielder only joined Benfica this summer for a €10million (£8.9million) fee plus €8m (£7.1m) in add-ons from Argentine giants River Plate.

Meanwhile, Benfica president Rui Costa has already stated that the club will not be selling Fernandez or any of its star players this January unless their release clauses are met.

He said: “We have the sole objective of having a winning season, no player will leave – unless it is due to the clause – which at this moment is fundamental for the squad.

“What I can promise our supporters is what I did at the beginning of the year. This is a sporting project, not a financial one. Fortunately, we are not experiencing financial problems and we have no need to sell players.”