English Premier League giants Chelsea have reportedly come out to be the frontrunners in the race to sign one of the hottest midfield sensations to have come out of the World Cup in Qatar, Argentine World Cup winner Enzo Fernandez, English Daily The Sun reported on Thursday.

With one goal and an assist in Argentina's triumphant run, the 21-year-old, who played all seven matches took home the Young Player of the Tournament award.

With Liverpool, Manchester United, and Real Madrid also in the mix, Chelsea, according to The Sun, have made the first move and agreed to pay the £105 million release clause for the Benfica midfielder who has a contract signed with the Portuguese club till 2027.

The Blues have expressed their desire to sign the Argentine star in a meeting with Benfica president Rui Costa and super-agent Jorge Mendes and the London club were informed that the deal will most likely go through.

Chelsea would now have to discuss personal terms and agreements with Fernandez and his representatives.

If the deal goes through, it would be a new club record for the Blues surpassing the £97.5 million they paid for out-of-favour striker Romelu Lukaku.

Chelsea manager Graham Potter already has his work cut out for him in midfield as N'golo Kante and Jorginho will see their contracts expire at the end of this season and with new backing in the form of Todd Boehly-led ownership, the Blues will look to reinforce their ranks preferably with a statement signing.

Owner Todd Boehly has not been shy to splash the cash as Chelsea have made a proactive start to January with the agreement to sign French striker Christopher Nkuku for £50 million due for next summer and for the ongoing season, the Blues have roped in 20-year-old striker David Datro Fofana for £8 million from Molde.