Forgotten Man Utd starlet to leave without ever playing for club after £5.1million transfer clause activated

MANCHESTER UNITED full back Alvaro Fernandez is set to the leave the club for £5.1million.

The defender joined from Real Madrid in 2020, signing a four year deal.

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After being named as Man Utd‘s under 23 Player of the Year in 2022, Fernandez has had loan spells at Preston and Granada.

Most recently, he was signed on loan by Benfica in January after failing to break into the Man Utd first team.

The loan included an optional buy-clause which would become mandatory if he started 50% of Benfica’s remaining games.

Despite Fernandez struggling when he arrived at the club, he has impressed Benfica in recent weeks.

And the Portuguese club have reportedly decided to trigger the buy-option early.

Announcing the news on X (formerly known as Twitter), journalist Fabrizo Romano said: “Benfica are still planning to trigger the buy option clause for Alvaro Fernandez.

“Almost €6m to Manchester United. Plans have not changed as he’s doing well.

“Benfica are expected to proceed even before the scheduled date.”

The move comes as a surprise to some Man Utd fans.

This is mainly due to the club not having a fully-fit designated left-back, with Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia being out with long-term injuries.

Pundits verdict on Ten Hag's future

Where do the pundits stand on Erik ten Hag's Manchester United future

Jamie Carragher – Sacked

“I don’t see how Erik ten Hag stays. It’s just performance after performance.”

Gary Neville – Stay if he wins the FA Cup

“To sack a manager who’s won two trophies in his first two seasons at the club I think would be extreme.”

Louis Saha – On the fence

“I don’t see it as clearly but they need changes from the players but they need changes from him as well.”

Alan Shearer – Sacked

“I believe the future of the Man Utd manager is already determined. Even if they win the FA Cup I think he’s gone.”