Eddie Howe has admitted that it might cost too much money to bring Enzo Fernandez to Newcastle United.
The Toon boss was asked about Fernandez ahead of the League Cup clash with Bournemouth, after he became a World Cup winner on Sunday afternoon.
The 21-year-old played a vital role in Argentina beating France in the World Cup final, with Lionel Scaloni’s side eventually winning the game on penalties.
Fernandez was one of Argentina’s best players, topping the charts for most touches, passes and tackles. He was described as ‘absolutely outstanding‘ by ITV commentator Lee Dixon, and that is why he was named Young Player of the Tournament after the final whistle.
After the game, Toon legend Alan Shearer was waxing lyrical about the Benfica midfielder, before bringing his beloved Newcastle United into the conversation.
What Alan Shearer said about Enzo Fernandez
After the game, BBC Match of the Day were discussing Fernandez. Host Gary Lineker asked Shearer if he would like to see the youngster sign for Newcastle in the future, and he responded in emphatic fashion.
“Absolutely, yes,” he said.
“See if he wants to play against Bournemouth on Tuesday.”
Eddie Howe reacts to Shearer claim
Following Shearer’s comments, Howe has been asked about the possibility of the Magpies making a move for Fernandez.
“I’m aware of him [Fernandez] and I know him,” Howe said.
“But I think the transfer fee might be quite lumpy.”
Howe then admitted that he missed Shearer’s comments, adding: “I apologise to Alan, I was on the other channel.”
No way Fernandez joins Newcastle
While the biggest shock is that Howe was watching ITV over BBC, there is simply no way that Enzo Fernandez is going to be leaving Benfica for Newcastle anytime soon.
He is arguably the biggest emerging star to come out of this World Cup, and has been heavily linked with a move to Liverpool. He reportedly has a release clause of £103million, and Benfica want it paid in full if they are to let him go.
Despite Newcastle’s newfound wealth, that is certainly too much for Howe’s side to pay. It has been claimed that the owners do not plan on making any major signings when the January transfer window opens.
That will disappoint Shearer, who wants to see Fernandez at St James’ Park. He must think there is a bottomless pit of money now, as he also admitted that he wants Croatia centre-back Josko Gvardiol to join as well.
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