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Published January 23, 2025 8:31am Updated January 23, 2025 8:31am
Alvaro Fernandez is in no rush to leave Benfica, saying he ‘owes them everything’ after the club gave him the chance to shine on the big stage.
The 21-year-old has had an eventful career so far, coming through the youth ranks at Deportivo La Coruna and Real Madrid before moving to Manchester United in 2020.
He never made it into the Red Devils first team and after loan spells at Preston and Granada, moved to Benfica on a short-term deal in January last year, which became permanent in the summer.
The left-back has thoroughly impressed for Benfica since that initial loan move and has already made 30 appearances this season in all competitions, scoring three goals.
His performances have seen him linked to the likes of Barcelona and Real Madrid, while Manchester United may also choose to trigger a buy-back option in his contract.
However, the Spaniard is not concerning himself with transfer speculation, very grateful for the chance that Benfica offered him to play regularly in the Primeira Liga and Champions League.
‘No. In truth, we never know, but I have a long-term contract here at Benfica, I’m happy,’ Fernandez said on whether he could move to one of the Spanish giants. ‘They gave me the opportunity to grow and I owe them everything.’
His links to La Liga were brought into focus after an impressive attacking display in the thrilling 5-4 defeat to Barcelona in the Champions League this week.
However, Manchester United appear to be in the strongest position to sign him due to the buy-back clause in his contract.
The Red Devils let him leave for just €6m (£5m), with the potential of €3m (2.5m) in add-ons, which is proving to be a bargain for Benfica.
However, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reports that they can bring him back to Old Trafford for €18m (£15.2m), in a clause which is able to be activated until the summer of 2026.
Manchester United are expected to sign a player who can operate at left wing-back this month as it is a priority for manager Ruben Amorim.
The ongoing injury problems for Luke Shaw have seen the England international make just three appearances this season.
Diogo Dalot has been filling in on the left, but is not left-footed and Amorim wants an upgrade in a position which is crucial for his 3-4-3 formation.
Fernandez is not the only target, though, with talks taking place over a move for Lecce’s Patrick Dorgu.
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