It is no secret that if Manchester United is to pursue the type of incomings that Ineos is looking for, a few outgoings would be quite beneficial for the Premier League powerhouse.
Whether true or not, suggestions that only 10 players are safe from the axe this summer reveal a lot about how the Red Devils’ new decision-makers see this very ramshackle, imbalanced roster.
If not no one, then very few are ‘assured’ to play at Old Trafford next season, with Kobbie Mainoo, Alejando Garnacho, Rasmus Hojlund, and Andre Onana among those who may rest easy in the coming months.
Raphael Varane’s departure, revealed by Manchester United last week, felt like the start of an exodus. Casemiro, Christian Eriksen, and Sofyan Amrabat are almost expected to join him, while Anthony Martial’s contract is set to expire following this weekend’s FA Cup final rematch with Manchester City at Wembley.
Offers will also be examined for Jadon Sancho, Donny van de Beek, Hannibal Mejbri, and possibly Facundo Pellistri when they return from loan.
However, while the sale of Alvaro Fernandez will not provide enough finances for Manchester United to spend lavishly on, say, Jarrad Branthwaite or Michael Olise, the expression ‘any little assistance’ comes to mind.
Manchester United could sell Alvaro Fernandez today.
Benfica signed Fernandez, also known as Alvaro Carreras in Portugal, on a short-term deal in the January transfer window. However, the Portuguese giants included an option-to-buy clause in the agreement.
And, after a tough start in Lisbon, the Spain under-21 international appears to have secured a long-term contract at the Stadio da Luz, having finally proven his worth to head coach Roger Schmidt.
“Benfica triggers buy option clause for Alvaro Fernandez,” writes Fabrizio Romano on X, confirming Mais Futebol’s prior accusations. “The deal was concluded today. Alvaro commits to Benfica for the next five years.
“Manchester United will receive fee in the region of 6 million euros.”
Interestingly, Romano adds that Man United will have the option of bringing Fernandez back to Old Trafford if they decide to do so in the future. The former Preston North End loanee will also provide United with a significant windfall if he excels in Portugal before departing Benfica for a large sum in the future.
Benfica-bound left-back ‘can be a fantastic player’
“I regard him as a very powerful player, and I believe he reacts effectively when given limited minutes. Paco Lopez, who worked with Fernandez in the first half of 2023/24 in La Liga, informs A Bola.
“He understands that there are areas for improvement, and he will undoubtedly improve. I feel he has a bright future. Alvaro Carreras is a very talented offensive player.
“He is a technically advanced player. Plays well on the wing, communicates well with his teammates, and makes nice passes. Lopez adds, “Technically, he is a high-quality full-back.”
“But, of course, he is still young and needs to finish his development and improve some defensive skills. It’s a matter of cooperating and being patient with him.
“With hard training and determination, I feel he has the potential to be an excellent player. I feel that with time, he can become an important player for any team. Alvaro is young and certainly has a bright future; I am convinced of this.”