The midfielder sits at the center of attention in the European market, and River Plate watches with a mix of pride and caution as Benfica fights to keep him for the long haul.
It has been less than half a year since Enzo Fernandez left River Plate to join Benfica in Portugal. In that short span, the midfielder has cemented his status in European football, played in the Champions League, found the back of the net, earned a spot in a World Cup squad that went on to triumph, and emerged as one of the standout young talents in the sport. All of this happened in six remarkable months.
At the end of June, the transfer sent 18 million euros to Buenos Aires, with Benfica paying 10 million in cash and the remaining eight tied to targets: if he reached 10, 25, 40 and 50 appearances, with at least 45 minutes per game, a milestone of two million euros would be triggered on each threshold. The potential earnings for River Plate are impressive, and the possibilities do not end there.
That sum could rise even higher. Fernandez’s sensational World Cup performance, which began as a backup option and evolved into the unquestioned starting choice after the Poland match, sparked interest from Europe’s elite clubs. Chelsea moved into the fray, offering more than the release clause and presenting a financial package that would best match the midfielder’s aspirations. According to respected journalist Fabrizio Romano, Fernandez has accepted Chelsea’s proposal, and the two clubs are now in direct discussions as the Blues prepare a substantial bid.
Benfica coach Roger Schmidt underscored the reality of the football business: young players often face pivotal opportunities. He noted that when such chances arise, players must weigh them carefully. While he can offer guidance and advice, Schmidt emphasized that the decision rests with the players, who pursue their careers with a singular focus and commitment.
Even though the winter window has just opened and a month remains for negotiations, Benfica remains determined to keep Fernandez. The club’s ambition to reclaim the Primeira Liga title and advance further in the Champions League fuels their resolve, and they are prepared to position the midfielder among Portugal’s top earners to persuade him to stay through the season and beyond.
HOW MUCH MONEY DOES RIVER GET
The deal between River Plate and Benfica, struck in June, centered on 75% of the economic rights, with River reserving 25% of any future transfer. This structure acknowledges Benfica’s history as a selling club and mirrors past experiences, including the Darwin Núñez case. In addition, the agreement covers nearly the entire 5% solidarity mechanism, recognizing Fernandez’s development at River and Defensa y Justicia during his youth and loan spell.
Looking ahead, a hypothetical transfer value of 120 million euros would translate into roughly 35 million for River Plate in the European currency, a figure that would represent more than double what the club earned from direct sales in the past. The numbers illustrate how a single talent can reshape a club’s financial trajectory while building a bridge to future generations of players.
Source: Goal