Man Utd have 'key advantage' over European rivals to sign Benfica star

Benfica have a steep asking price of over £40 million for highly-rated left-back Alvaro Carreras, but Manchester United have a big advantage.

United can re-sign their former academy product for less than half that amount due to a buyback clause.

Carreras, 21, joined Benfica permanently last summer for just £5 million following a successful loan spell in the second half of the 2023-24 season.

Originally signed by United from Real Madrid in 2017, the Spaniard never made a senior appearance for the Red Devils and was loaned out to Preston North End and Granada before his departure.

Now thriving at Benfica under former Wolves manager Bruno Lage, Carreras has made 30 appearances this season, scoring three goals and providing three assists.

His performances, including a notable assist in Benfica's dramatic 5-4 Champions League loss to Barcelona, have attracted interest from top clubs, including Real Madrid and Barcelona.

Benfica have reportedly set an asking price of €50 million (£42 million) for potential suitors, according to Diario AS.

However, Manchester United have a buyback clause that allows them to re-sign Carreras for just €20 million (£17 million).

This gives United a significant edge over other clubs should they choose to bring him back to Old Trafford.

United manager Ruben Amorim is actively searching for reinforcements at left-back, having recently seen a bid for Lecce’s Patrick Dorgu rejected.

With Carreras available at a bargain price, he could become a prime target for United as they look to strengthen their squad.

Despite the speculation, Carreras has expressed his satisfaction at Benfica, where he is under contract until 2029.

Speaking to DAZN Portugal via Record, he said: "No [I haven’t thought about leaving]. Actually, you never know, but I have a contract for many years here at Benfica, I'm happy.

"They gave me the opportunity to grow, and I owe everything to them."

Former United manager Erik ten Hag previously emphasized the club’s intention to monitor Carreras’ development, stating in October: "I think the process is perfect.

"We loaned him to Preston, he got back, then to Granada. Of course, we observed him, and now we had the opportunity to sell him. But we have a buyback [clause], so we have control of the situation.

"Playing at Man United is not so easy; you need experience and development. He’s stepped up to better clubs and leagues each time. Now we have to assess if he can be an option for us."

Barcelona are also reportedly monitoring Carreras, though he has shown no urgency to leave Benfica.

Meanwhile, Real Madrid, his boyhood club, would have to meet Benfica’s full asking price if they hope to secure his services.

With United’s buyback clause offering a potential bargain, the decision now rests with Amorim and the Old Trafford hierarchy as they evaluate whether Carreras could bolster their defensive ranks.