As Manchester United looks for a left-back this summer, the player they sold has been impressing in the Champions League, drawing interest from Real Madrid and Barcelona.
Alvaro Fernandez Carreras departed Old Trafford after Benfica after a loan; they exercised their option to sign him permanently. He has performed well in Portugal this season, starting seven consecutive matches as a left-back in both the league and European competitions.
He was a standout player for Benfica in their 4-0 victory over Atletico Madrid, contributing to the Eagles’ perfect start to their Champions League campaign. The Portuguese press lauded his solid defensive display and his ability to provide an attacking option on the left flank.
That is precisely what United have needed this season, with Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia still yet to kick a ball. Diogo Dalot has been forced into action as a makeshift left-back and has struggled in the position, while midfielder Toby Collyer played there in the Carabao Cup success against Barnsley.
United had little say in Fernandez’s departure, as Benfica opted to buy the 21-year-old following a promising loan period. The €6 million fee, plus an additional €3 million in add-ons, appears to be a great deal.
However, similar to their recent sales of young players, United included some safeguards in the deal. They secured what club officials refer to as a “high” sell-on clause and a buyback option for a fee reported to be around the £7.5 million they received from Benfica.
According to the Portuguese newspaper O Jogo, United is already contemplating activating the buyback clause, while Real Madrid and Barcelona have been impressed by the Spain Under-21 international’s strong start in a top-tier first-team setting.
United could potentially pursue Fernandez in January if their left-back issues persist. Shaw hasn’t played for the club since February, and Malacia has been sidelined since May 2023. Neither player’s fitness can be assured, and the initial months of this season have demonstrated that makeshift solutions are not effective.
Shaw and Malacia have three months to show they can regain fitness and make an impact. If not, United will likely need to take action in January. A loan move could be appealing for a club still working to meet the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR).
Similarly, pursuing a cost-effective deal for a 21-year-old who is currently excelling in one of the largest stages of club football could prove to be a very strategic decision for United. Given his impressive performances, Fernandez has demonstrated his talent and capability to compete at a high level. Additionally, his familiarity with the club’s setup and culture provides an extra advantage, as he would be able to integrate seamlessly into the team without the typical adjustment period that new players often face. This existing knowledge could allow him to contribute effectively from the outset, making him an even more attractive option for the club as they look to strengthen their squad. Overall, this move could not only enhance United’s roster but also build on the foundation of a player who already understands the club’s values and expectations.
Even if United chooses not to follow that path, it could still see profits soon. Real Madrid or Barcelona are expected to wait until next summer to make their move, but if Fernandez maintains his strong performance for Benfica and potentially earns a spot in the senior international team, a deal could become more probable.
Supporters may feel a sense of frustration as they watch a left-back that United sold thrive in another team at this moment. It might be discouraging to witness a gifted athlete excel after leaving the club. However, it’s important to remember that this was a deal United couldn’t prevent back in May. The circumstances surrounding the transfer left them with little choice. Despite the disappointment, the clauses that were built into the agreement could still turn out to be quite advantageous for the club in the long run. These protective measures may provide financial benefits and potential future opportunities, which could alleviate some of the frustration among fans.
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