January 26th 2025.
According to reports, Manchester United has their sights set on a new left-back for their team this month. The club is considering making a move for Alvaro Fernandez from Benfica in the January transfer window. With time running out before the deadline, Fernandez has become a serious option for United to recruit.
The Daily Mail reveals that while negotiations with Lecce for Patrick Dorgu are still ongoing, United is fully prepared to turn their attention to Fernandez should a deal not be reached. The Portuguese club, managed by Ruben Amorim, is also weighing up whether to exercise their £15m buy-back clause for the 21-year-old player, which is active until January 2026. United even sent scouts to watch Fernandez in action for Benfica against Casa Pia on Saturday, showcasing their interest in the youngster.
Fernandez initially joined Benfica on loan from United in 2020, before making the move permanent in May 2024. He had previously come through the ranks at Real Madrid before joining the Red Devils. However, he never made an appearance for the first-team and instead was sent out on loan to Preston North End, Granada, and Benfica respectively.
Now, with the possibility of a return to United looming, Fernandez could potentially add depth to the team's left-back position. This could happen if the club is unable to secure a deal for Dorgu, who currently plays for Italian side Lecce. Dorgu remains United's top target for the left-back position, with the club having their initial offer of £16.8m plus £4.2m in add-ons rejected last week. However, there are reports that United may make a second bid for the player.
Fernandez has been one of Benfica's standout performers this season and his impressive performances have not gone unnoticed by United. The young player also has a €50m release clause in his current contract, making him an attractive option for other clubs as well. United may want to bring him back to Old Trafford before any other team triggers that clause, especially if he continues to impress on the field. The club also has greater financial flexibility after sending Antony out on loan to Real Betis in Spain.
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