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Former Man United defender addresses transfer rumours over potential Old Trafford return

Ex-Man United defender addresses rumours over Old Trafford return
© Imago
Benfica defender Alvaro Fernandez opens up on transfer rumours linking him with a potential return to Manchester United.

Benfica left-back Alvaro Fernandez has addressed transfer rumours that he could return to Manchester United in the future.

Fernandez completed a permanent move to Benfica in the summer transfer window after he spent the second half of last season on loan at the Portuguese club.

Man United agreed to sell Fernandez in a deal worth an initial €6m (£5m), with the Red Devils retaining a two-year buy-back option.

Fernandez had previously spent time out on loan at Preston North End and Granada after he failed to break into the Man United first team.

In fact, the Spain Under-21 international left the Premier League club without making a single appearance for the senior side.

Benfica defender Alvaro Fernandez on October 2, 2024© Imago

Fernandez opens up on Man United return rumours

While he may have struggled at Man United, Fernandez has made a positive impressive since completing a permanent switch to Benfica.

The left-back has started nine of his 11 competitive appearances this season, including a third consecutive Champions League start in Wednesday's 3-1 defeat to Feyenoord.

Speaking after the game, Fernandez was asked about a potential Old Trafford return amid speculation linking him with his former club.

Fernandez told Record: "I only think about Benfica. I'm only focused here. I'll try to keep up the same level, try to help the team as much as possible. I'm just another player on the team."

"Not scoring, that's really important to win. We had everything well planned. We weren't surprised by Feyenoord. We knew how they played, quick counter-attacks, but like I said, let's think about the future, the next game, which is on Sunday."

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag on October 19, 2024© Imago

How likely is a Man United return?

With the buy-back clause said to be around £16m, Man United are in a strong position should they want to re-sign their former defender.

However, Ten Hag ultimately deemed Fernandez surplus to requirements in the summer, and it seems unlikely that his position would have drastically changed in such a short period.

But with the Dutchman battling to save his job, there is a possibility that a new Man United manager could look to bring Fernandez back to Old Trafford.

The left-back position is certainly a problem area for Man United due to the injury issues which have plagued Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia.

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Written by
Ben Sully

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Benfica left-back Alvaro Fernandez pictured on August 24, 2024
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