Manchester United Transfer Update: Red Devils Announce Permanent Departure Of Defender
Manchester United have confirmed their first transfer of the summer window with the permanent departure of an out-of-favour defender. Spanish left-back Alvaro Fernandez, who spent three years in Real Madrid’s youth system from 2017 to 2020, was signed by the Red Devils on a free transfer.
Fernandez quickly made an impact in Man United’s youth setup as an attacking left-back and was on the bench for the last four games of the 2023-24 Premier League season under Ralf Rangnick.
The 21-year-old then had a successful loan spell at Preston North End during the 2022-23 season, providing six assists in 42 matches for the Championship club. However, he did not manage to secure a place in Erik ten Hag’s plans.
This season, Fernandez has been on loan with Spanish side Granada and Portuguese giants Benfica, making 16 appearances for the latter and recording one goal and one assist.
Benfica Triggers Option to Buy Fernandez
Benfica and Manchester United’s loan agreement for Alvaro Fernandez included an option for a permanent transfer, which the Portuguese club has now exercised. On Sunday evening, the Red Devils confirmed this development.
Fernandez has signed a five-year contract with Benfica, keeping him at the club until the summer of 2029. Manchester United is expected to receive approximately €6 million (£5.1 million) for the sale of the Spain Under-21 international.
Expressing his delight, Fernandez told Benfica’s official website, “I’m very happy for the trust they’ve placed in me. I’ve wanted to keep wearing this jersey ever since I arrived, and I want to say thank you next year by fighting for every possible title with the support of the fans.”
Manchester United’s statement also extended well wishes to Fernandez, saying, “Everyone at United would like to wish Alvaro all the best of luck in the future and will be keeping an eye on his progress.”
Fernandez departs Manchester United without making a competitive first-team appearance. He was included in one of Erik ten Hag’s matchday squads, during August’s 3-2 Premier League win over Nottingham Forest.
Which Players Could Depart Alongside Fernandez?
While Fernandez is the first player to leave Manchester United for another club this summer, the Red Devils have already confirmed that Raphael Varane will depart when his contract expires next month.
Injury-prone striker Anthony Martial and out-of-favour defender Brandon Williams are expected to follow, while the futures of veterans Tom Heaton and Jonny Evans remain uncertain, though Heaton is reportedly keen to extend his stay.
Sofyan Amrabat’s loan from Fiorentina is unlikely to be made permanent, and midfielders Christian Eriksen, Casemiro, and Donny van de Beek are also on the transfer list.
Further forward, Jadon Sancho and Mason Greenwood are not expected to remain at Old Trafford. The futures of Hannibal Mejbri and Facundo Pellistri, currently on loan at Sevilla and Granada respectively, are uncertain.
Manchester United may consider offers for Antony and Aaron Wan-Bissaka. However, the biggest question mark is around head coach Erik ten Hag, who is reportedly set to be sacked despite the team’s FA Cup final victory over Manchester City on Saturday.
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