Manchester United have been without a specialist left-back this season.
Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia are working on their rehabilitation, forcing Diogo Dalot to operate as a makeshift left-back.
Man United sanctioned Alvaro Fernandez’s departure to Benfica in a deal worth £7.7 million in June.
It was a big surprise to see Fernandez leave, with United having huge fitness concerns at left-back.
The 21-year-old is earning plaudits for his showings with the Portuguese giants.
Erik ten Hag was quizzed whether there was any regret about letting him leave. He replied (via ManUtd.com): “I think the process is perfect.
“We loan him to Preston (North End), he got back, then we loan him to Granada.
He didn’t play so much there and, of course, we observed him and now we had the opportunity to sell him.
“But we have a buy-back [clause], so we have control of the situation – I think that’s what he needed.
“From Preston, then go to La Liga, go to Portugal [with Benfica], every time stepping up to a higher club and a better league.
“Now we have to see and assess the situation if he can be an option for us.
“But playing at Man United is not so easy – playing in the Premier League for Manchester United is not so easy.
“You need experience, also development. You get development from playing for better clubs and in better leagues.”
Fernandez has established himself as a regular face in the line-up, starting seven out of nine games.
The buy-back condition puts United in an advantageous position.
If the youngster can develop his game, the Red Devils may plan to trigger the buy-back clause.
The left-back position has been a troublesome spot, and signing a fully-developed Fernandez would represent shrewd business.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com.
