Shut down those rumors about Nicolás Fernández Mercau, NYCFC, and do it now

Since joining New York City FC last summer, Nicolás Fernández Mercau has turned into a star for the Pigeons, especially this year. The Argentine has been brilliant on the pitch in so many ways, and, like Maxi Moralez, he clearly improves the team when he plays. His technical ability and the fact that he has scored five goals in the 2026 Major League Soccer season have ultimately brought rumors to light.

According to Ekrem Konur of Sportsboom, Fernández Mercau has renewed interest from Europe. Specifically, two Portuguese teams, Sporting Clube de Portugal and Sport Lisboa e Benfica, are interested in a summer move. In addition, the clubs have been watching him in "meticulous detail for two seasons."

NYCFC cannot let Nicolás Fernández Mercau leave

Konur, who is known for his reporting on transfers, said that both teams view NYCFC's Designated Player as a top priority, and that it is "rumored that the New York side will open negotiations at the €20 million mark." Of course, since the transfer window is not open, no offers have been made.

For NYCFC fans, this is not a rumor they would want to hear. It is one thing if this were just speculation, but again, Konur is not someone who just throws things out there. Notably, it is still just a rumor, though, and will be until more reports are made and/or a move is declared official. But the Bronx side should not even discuss this.

Yes, earning a high amount on a player is always ideal, and it can help build toward the future. But signing Fernández Mercau was building toward the future. Etihad Park will open next summer, and the Argentine was viewed as someone who would be critical for the Pigeons and help lead the team into the new glory years.

In previous seasons, it was seen as okay for NYCFC to allow players to go to Europe and follow their dreams. But the DP has been to Europe and came from there, last playing for the Spanish side Elche Club de Fútbol, S.A.D., helping the team get promoted to La Liga. Plus, he agreed and wanted to come to the Bronx and Queens team. Letting him go after a year with the Pigeons would be heinous on the part of the front office.

Money is always great, and understandably, soccer is a business. At the same time, the Boys in Blue could build with Fernández Mercau. He has the talent, and he is someone who could be the successor to Moralez, where he can be the next legend of the club.

Now, saying no this summer does not mean never. Perhaps the midfielder will continue to play as he has been and remain as one of the best in MLS. Maybe he will improve even more. Eventually, as long as other players are ready to take over, he could return to Europe.

Alas, it is vital that NYCFC holds on to their star players to create some form of consistency. But if the club is persistent about earning a transfer fee and wants to let the Argentine have another chance in Europe, then they better have a top player from a European team ready to go, like Mohamed Salah.

When all is said and done, the Bronx team should do everything they can to keep Fernández Mercau in the Big Apple, even if that means raising his salary. NYCFC should also immediately shut down these rumors and express the intention to continue with the Argentine beyond this summer.