Ruben Amorim appears to be zeroing in on specific transfer targets as he prepares to assume the managerial role at Manchester United this November. One player high on his list is Alvaro Fernandez, Benfica’s rising left-back talent.
Amorim’s interest in Fernandez is driven by Manchester United’s current need for reinforcements in the left-back position due to the injuries of Tyrell Malacia and Luke Shaw. These injuries have weakened United’s defensive options, making Fernandez an attractive choice for Amorim’s future lineup.
At 21, Fernandez has already built an impressive resume. He joined Manchester United’s youth ranks in 2020, aiming to progress to the senior team. However, instead of an immediate leap into the first team, he gained experience through various loan stints. Fernandez demonstrated his potential at Preston North End in the Championship, refined his skills further with Granada in Spain, and eventually landed at Benfica, where his strong performances in Portugal’s Primeira Liga led the club to secure him permanently, reportedly for £5 million.
Reports from GiveMeSport suggest that United may be considering activating a buyback clause included in Fernandez’s contract with Benfica. This clause allows United to re-sign Fernandez for about £16.7 million, offering the club a financially sound and adaptable solution for the left-back role. This would align with United’s transfer goals, especially under the new INEOS ownership.
Amorim’s interest in Fernandez is understandable given his current role as Sporting CP’s manager, which has allowed him to observe Fernandez closely in the Portuguese league. Competing against Benfica regularly, Amorim has seen Fernandez’s talents firsthand. Fernandez’s youth, speed, and attacking flair on the left side would complement Amorim’s tactics, potentially strengthening United’s defense and adding an offensive edge.
While Amorim is yet to officially step into his role at Old Trafford, he is currently wrapping up his tenure at Sporting CP. His remaining matches in charge include a high-stakes game against Manchester City, a fitting lead-in to the competitive challenges awaiting him in the Premier League. Once settled at United, his early fixtures will see him face Ipswich Town, Bodo/Glimt, and Everton, giving him a chance to make an immediate impact.
Fans and analysts alike are already speculating about Fernandez’s potential return. His familiarity with Manchester United, combined with the development he has undergone in Portugal, makes him a promising candidate to address United’s left-back needs. Bringing Fernandez back could provide immediate reinforcement and long-term value, aligning well with Amorim’s vision for reshaping United’s squad.
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