Manchester United have the opportunity to re-sign Alvaro Fernandez for a low buy-back clause amid interest from Premier League rivals Liverpool.
Fernandez joined Benfica on loan from the Red Devils in January. He was signed on a permanent basis in the summer after the Portuguese side triggered a £5 million buy clause.
The 21-year-old has since been a key player for the Primeira Liga giants. He has featured in every game for the club and has impressed with his defensive attributes in particular.
AS recently reported Liverpool are interested in signing Fernandez from Benfica, but we personally explained that United have a big advantage due to a buy-back clause.
Record today confirm United have the option to re-sign their graduate for £16.7 million. The value is significantly less than the left-back’s current £42 million release clause.
The Spanish ace spent the first half of last season with Granada in La Liga. He was recalled by the Red Devils before his move to the Portuguese top-flight with Benfica.
Fernandez has prospered during his time in Lisbon. He has been hugely impressive with his tackling, ball recoveries, duel-winning ability as well as his forward passes.
The youngster has averaged 25 passes per game in the opposition half. If Fernandez continues to excel with Benfica, United could be tempted to re-sign him next summer.
Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia are presently the specialist left-back choices at United, but both of them have been injury-prone and have yet to make an appearance this term.
Shaw made only 15 appearances for United last season. He featured for England at the European Championship, but picked up an injury in pre-season with the Red Devils.
Malacia, on the other hand, has not played a competitive game for 16 months after a knee surgery. Both of them are anticipated to return following the international break.
The duo may need to stay unscathed for the remainder of the season. If there is another setback for either, United could contemplate a possible reunion with Fernandez.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com
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