Alvaro Fernandez sends goodbye message to Granada as next Manchester United exit soon to be concluded

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Manchester United youngster Alvaro Fernandez is braced to complete a move to Benfica.

Alvaro Fernandez is set to join Benfica on loan, a deal which would include an ‘option to buy’, reports Mais Futebol.

The former Preston North End loanee has spent the first half of this season on loan at Spanish La Liga side Granada.

However, the ex-Real Madrid academy talent has seen his spell at Granada cut short.

The Spanish side announced: “Granada Football Club has received notification from Manchester United, which has decided to break the loan period.”

• READ MORE: Confirmed Manchester United transfer deals for January 2024, ins, outs, loan moves

Alvaro Fernandez says goodbye to Granada

Alvaro Fernandez only started in five La Liga games for Granada. He was at times played in midfield, rather than at left-back.

He enjoyed making his top flight debut, and has posted a farewell message to supporters of the Spanish side on Instagram.

He wrote: “My stay in Granada was special although it was not as long as we all expected. It was a true pleasure to represent this club and I will always be grateful to the fans and the club in general, but above all to the people who spent every day with me taking care of me and supporting me from day one.

“We wanted the season to be more successful, but we shared some incredible memories and I will always remember my time at the club as an important part of my career. I wish you all the luck for the rest of the season. I know that this group and our loyal followers have the attitude and the fight to stay on their feet this season and achieve the goal.”

Half a season could have been spent at United

Manchester United supporters have not been happy with how the Alvaro Fernandez situation has played out.

Erik ten Hag took the decision to send Fernandez out on loan on deadline day, with the club crying out for a left-back to cover an injury crisis.

He in turn signed Sergio Reguilon on loan from Tottenham, a deal which has since been terminated.

Reguilon did not convince Ten Hag and struggled with injuries. Meanwhile Manchester United crashed out of the Champions League.

Now, Fernandez is heading on loan to Benfica, a club who are likely to buy him and sell him on for a major profit.

This is all feels mishandled, with Fernandez yet to make his United debut. He could have spent the past few months showing what he could do at Old Trafford.