Man Utd may trigger buy-back clause for 'top European player' in problem position

Manchester United are reportedly weighing up the option to activate a £16.7 million buy-back clause for former academy player Álvaro Fernández.

He left just months ago but he could be an answer to the club's problems.

Despite flashes of brilliance, including a 2-1 victory over Manchester City and a 2-2 draw against Liverpool, manager Ruben Amorim has found it challenging to turn the tide since his appointment in November.

As the January transfer window opens, fans are eager to see Amorim make his mark on the squad. However, financial constraints mean United must adopt a "sell to buy" strategy to comply with Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR).

Academy graduates Marcus Rashford and Kobbie Mainoo have been linked with potential moves, as homegrown player sales represent "pure profit" under PSR regulations.

Yet it is another academy product, Fernández, who could be on his way back to Old Trafford.

Fernández, 21, joined United’s academy from Real Madrid in September 2020.

He began training with the first team in the 2021/22 season and earned the U23 Player of the Year award for his performances.

After loan spells at Preston North End, Granada, and Benfica, Fernández found his form in Lisbon, securing a permanent move to Benfica in May 2024 for a reported £5 million fee.

This season, he has flourished, making 26 appearances across all competitions, scoring three goals, and providing two assists.

The Spaniard’s impressive form has reignited United’s interest, with the Express reporting that a £16.7 million buy-back clause exists in his Benfica contract.

Given Luke Shaw’s ongoing injury issues and Diogo Dalot’s preference for the right flank, Fernández could fill a crucial gap in Amorim’s squad.

Fernández has previously expressed his ambition to return to Manchester United. Speaking to The Athletic while on loan at Granada in December 2023, he said:

“What message did United give me? That I should go out on loan, that Ten Hag didn’t count on me, that I should continue to gain experience, rhythm, and we’ll see what happens in the future.

“But it’s clear that football doesn’t end at any club, and you have to keep working. My main objective is to return to United and make a place for myself there.”

With United’s left-back position requiring reinforcement and Fernández’s proven development, activating the buy-back clause could be a smart move. It would not only address a squad need but also align with the club’s financial constraints.

As the transfer window progresses, Fernández’s potential return could provide United with a much-needed boost in a challenging season.